Major Lake
Key Takeaway
Major Lake is classified as high hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1939 and is 87 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 13 ft (taller than 5.1% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 310 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 73 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 29 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 32 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,030 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1939 (87 years old) |
| NID ID | SD02225 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USDA FS
Federal Government
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High Hazard 42 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Major Lake?
Major Lake is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Major Lake?
Major Lake is owned by USDA FS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Major Lake built?
Major Lake was completed in 1939, making it 87 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 Major Lake?
Major Lake serves the following purposes: Recreation, Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Major Lake?
Major Lake has a dam height of 13 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 Major Lake last inspected?
Major Lake was last inspected on September 5, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.