Crow Creek

CROW CREEK· Buffalo, South Dakota· Built 1939· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Crow Creek is classified as significant hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1939 and is 87 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length1,425 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Normal Storage2.0K acre-ft
Year Completed1939 (87 years old)
NID IDSD00714

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

Ownership

BIA

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Crow Creek?

Crow Creek 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 Crow Creek?

Crow Creek is owned by BIA (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Crow Creek built?

Crow Creek was completed in 1939, making it 87 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 Crow Creek?

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

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.