ORGANIZATION

The Lake DeSmet Operating Department is a department of Johnson County Government and answers directly to the Johnson County Commissioners.  The ownership of Lake DeSmet Reservoir was transferred to Johnson County in November 2012.  Johnson County is responsible for 68.27% of the annual operation and maintenance costs associated with the Lake DeSmet Reservoir.  Sasol Synfuels International Pty Ltd, owner of M&M Ranch, is responsible for the remaining 31.73%.  The Lake DeSmet Operating Department and Sasol work cooperatively to develop sustainable operation and maintenance plans for Lake DeSmet.  The Lake DeSmet Operating Department’s purpose is the proper management and maintenance of the Lake DeSmet Reservoir and it’s related assets.  Lake DeSmet Reservoir will be managed as a multiple use resource focusing on domestic, municipal, agricultural, industrial and recreational use while adhering to statutory and Board of Control requirements for safe dam operation. 

SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM OF WATER RIGHTS PERTAINING TO LAKE DeSMET RESERVOIR

Please click on the link below to see the diagram:

Schematic Diagram of Water Rights Pertaining to Lake DeSmet Reservoir