Lacreek Dam No. 8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lacreek Dam No.


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Summary

8 is a Federal-owned structure located in Bennett, South Dakota, along Lake Creek. Constructed in 1934 by the Fish and Wildlife Service, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a hydraulic height of 7 feet, serving primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. With a storage capacity of 4,558 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 481 acres and has a maximum discharge of 2,260 cubic feet per second.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Lacreek Dam No. 8 is not regulated by the state of South Dakota. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service, which is responsible for its operation, inspection, and enforcement. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam poses a manageable risk, and emergency preparedness measures are in place to ensure the safety of the surrounding area in case of any unforeseen events.

In addition to providing vital water resources for wildlife and recreation, Lacreek Dam No. 8 offers a glimpse into the intricate network of dams and reservoirs that play a crucial role in managing water supply and mitigating the effects of climate change. As a key component of the St. Paul District's infrastructure, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices in sustaining ecosystems and supporting biodiversity in the region.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

5850

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

LAKE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

481

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

87

Nid Storage

4558

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.