Lake Wagner Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Wagner Dam is classified as significant hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 20 ft (taller than 33.7% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 465 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 215 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 70 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 13 acres |
| Drainage Area | 16 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,333 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1999 |
| NID ID | SD00905 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
S&PL
State Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Wagner Dam?
Lake Wagner Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Lake Wagner Dam?
Lake Wagner Dam is owned by S&PL (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Wagner Dam built?
Lake Wagner Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Lake Wagner Dam?
Lake Wagner Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Wagner Dam?
Lake Wagner Dam has a dam height of 20 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Lake Wagner Dam last inspected?
Lake Wagner Dam was last inspected on October 3, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.