Dowd Dam
Key Takeaway
Dowd Dam is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 32 ft (taller than 90.4% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 370 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 320 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 150 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 5,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1935 (91 years old) |
| NID ID | SD00906 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
FRANK DOWD
Private
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Low Hazard 40 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Dowd Dam?
Dowd Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Dowd Dam?
Dowd Dam is owned by FRANK DOWD (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Dowd Dam built?
Dowd 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 Dowd Dam?
Dowd 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 Dowd Dam?
Dowd Dam has a dam height of 32 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.