Fryer Dam

TRIB. WILD RICE CREEK· Marshall, South Dakota· Built 1981· Earth· 28 ft tall
Significant Hazard Fire Protection Stock Or Small Fish Pond Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Fryer Dam is classified as significant hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1981 and is 45 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 28 ft (taller than 77.7% in SD)
Dam Length700 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage520 acre-ft
Normal Storage260 acre-ft
Surface Area30 acres
Drainage Area6 sq mi
Max Discharge2,900 cfs
Year Completed1981 (45 years old)
NID IDSD02239

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: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DANR

Ownership

CURT FOSTER

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Fryer Dam?

Fryer 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 Fryer Dam?

Fryer Dam is owned by CURT FOSTER (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Fryer Dam built?

Fryer Dam was completed in 1981, making it 45 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 Fryer Dam?

Fryer Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Fryer Dam?

Fryer Dam has a dam height of 28 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.