Luxemberger Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake 16 Labrecque Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Luxemberger Dam, also known as Golf Course Dam, is a federal-owned structure located in Aurora, South Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1938 by the Fish and Wildlife Service, this earth-type dam serves as a fish and wildlife pond, with a primary purpose of supporting local ecosystems. The dam stands at 13 feet high and stretches 620 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 452 acre-feet and a normal storage of 141 acre-feet.
Despite its low hazard potential, Luxemberger Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition as of August 2020. The dam has undergone modifications in 1988 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam is monitored by the Fish and Wildlife Service for inspections every five years. Although there are no associated locks or outlet gates, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 26 feet to manage maximum discharge of 400 cubic feet per second.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Luxemberger Dam to be an intriguing structure that plays a crucial role in supporting local wildlife habitats. As a federally-owned facility, the dam showcases the intersection of conservation efforts and infrastructure development in safeguarding the environment. Despite its aging condition, ongoing monitoring and risk assessments ensure that Luxemberger Dam continues to serve its purpose effectively while mitigating potential hazards for the surrounding area.
Years Modified |
1988 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
620 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
PLATTE CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
51 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
452 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
James R Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
James R Near Mitchell Sd
|
659cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Luxemberger Dam