Cold Brook Dam
Key Takeaway
Cold Brook Dam is classified as high hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 Length | 925 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 7.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 520 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 36 acres |
| Drainage Area | 71 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 80,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| NID ID | SD01097 |
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
USACE - Omaha District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Cottonwood Springs Dam
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High Hazard 193 ftStreeter Dam
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Low Hazard 28 ftSchnose Dam No.2
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Low Hazard 15 ftEnglebrecht Dam
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Low Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cold Brook Dam?
Cold Brook Dam 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 Cold Brook Dam?
Cold Brook Dam is owned by USACE - Omaha District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cold Brook Dam built?
Cold Brook Dam was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Cold Brook Dam?
Cold Brook Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Cold Brook Dam last inspected?
Cold Brook Dam was last inspected on July 29, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.