White Clay
Key Takeaway
White Clay is classified as high hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1936 and is 90 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 | 22 ft (taller than 45.6% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 1,090 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 75 acres |
| Year Completed | 1936 (90 years old) |
| NID ID | SD00965 |
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
BIA
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of White Clay?
White Clay 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 White Clay?
White Clay is owned by BIA (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was White Clay built?
White Clay was completed in 1936, making it 90 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 White Clay?
White Clay 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 White Clay?
White Clay has a dam height of 22 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 White Clay last inspected?
White Clay was last inspected on August 8, 2012. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.