Dry Draw Dam

TR-SHORT BRANCH CREEK· Fall River, South Dakota· Built 1920· Earth· 18 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Dry Draw Dam is classified as significant hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 18 ft (taller than 24.1% in SD)
Dam Length2,000 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage288 acre-ft
Normal Storage240 acre-ft
Max Discharge780 cfs
Year Completed1920 (106 years old)
NID IDSD01045

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

USDA FS

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Dry Draw Dam?

Dry Draw 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 Dry Draw Dam?

Dry Draw Dam is owned by USDA FS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Dry Draw Dam built?

Dry Draw Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Dry Draw Dam?

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

How tall is Dry Draw Dam?

Dry Draw Dam has a dam height of 18 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.