Corn Creek Dam

TR BLACK PIPE CREEK· Mellette, South Dakota· Built 1935· Earth· 29 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Recreation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Corn Creek Dam is classified as significant hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 29 ft (taller than 82.6% in SD)
Dam Length480 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage460 acre-ft
Normal Storage352 acre-ft
Max Discharge3,200 cfs
Year Completed1935 (91 years old)
NID IDSD01466

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: No
Regulatory Agency: DANR

Ownership

ROSEBUD SIOUX TRIBE

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Corn Creek Dam?

Corn Creek 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 Corn Creek Dam?

Corn Creek Dam is owned by ROSEBUD SIOUX TRIBE (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Corn Creek Dam built?

Corn Creek Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 Corn Creek Dam?

Corn Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Corn Creek Dam?

Corn Creek Dam has a dam height of 29 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.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.