Fordham Dam
Key Takeaway
Fordham Dam is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1941 and is 85 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 14 ft (taller than 7.8% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 950 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 350 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 1,450 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1941 (85 years old) |
| NID ID | SD02367 |
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
GF&P
State Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fordham Dam?
Fordham 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 Fordham Dam?
Fordham Dam is owned by GF&P (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fordham Dam built?
Fordham Dam was completed in 1941, making it 85 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 Fordham Dam?
Fordham Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Fordham Dam?
Fordham Dam has a dam height of 14 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.
When was Fordham Dam last inspected?
Fordham Dam was last inspected on October 17, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.