Byre Dam
Key Takeaway
Byre Dam is classified as significant hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 27 ft (taller than 71.8% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 1,040 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 44 acres |
| Drainage Area | 37 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 9,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | SD02170 |
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
CITY OF KENNEBEC
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Christensen Dam
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Low Hazard 15 ftDorman Dam
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Low Hazard 21 ftKennebec Grazing Assoc. Dam
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Low Hazard 21 ftWendell Gilman
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Low Hazard 26 ftHalverson Dam
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Low Hazard 17 ftBrakke Dam
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Significant Hazard 29 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Byre Dam?
Byre 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 Byre Dam?
Byre Dam is owned by CITY OF KENNEBEC (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Byre Dam built?
Byre Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Byre Dam?
Byre 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 Byre Dam?
Byre Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Byre Dam last inspected?
Byre Dam was last inspected on October 19, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.