Gavins Point Dam
Key Takeaway
Gavins Point Dam is classified as high hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 Length | 8,700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 540.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 375.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32,000 acres |
| Drainage Area | 16,000 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 584,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1958 (68 years old) |
| NID ID | SD01094 |
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
USACE - Omaha District
Federal Government
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What is the hazard classification of Gavins Point Dam?
Gavins Point 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 Gavins Point Dam?
Gavins Point Dam is owned by USACE - Omaha District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Gavins Point Dam built?
Gavins Point Dam was completed in 1958, making it 68 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 Gavins Point Dam?
Gavins Point Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Irrigation, Navigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Gavins Point Dam last inspected?
Gavins Point Dam was last inspected on August 23, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.