Fourth Street Dam
Key Takeaway
Fourth Street Dam is classified as high hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1993 and is 33 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 43 ft (taller than 97.6% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 290 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 50 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 8,229 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1993 (33 years old) |
| NID ID | SD02254 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF PIERRE
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fourth Street Dam?
Fourth Street Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Fourth Street Dam?
Fourth Street Dam is owned by CITY OF PIERRE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fourth Street Dam built?
Fourth Street Dam was completed in 1993, making it 33 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 Fourth Street Dam?
Fourth Street 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 Fourth Street Dam?
Fourth Street Dam has a dam height of 43 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 Fourth Street Dam last inspected?
Fourth Street Dam was last inspected on July 27, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.