Merkwan Dam
Key Takeaway
Merkwan Dam is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1981 and is 45 years old. Its primary use is irrigation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 35 ft (taller than 94% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 250 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 120 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 4,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1981 (45 years old) |
| NID ID | SD02423 |
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
DAN MERKWAN
Private
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Low Hazard 40 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Merkwan Dam?
Merkwan 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 Merkwan Dam?
Merkwan Dam is owned by DAN MERKWAN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Merkwan Dam built?
Merkwan 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 Merkwan Dam?
Merkwan Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Merkwan Dam?
Merkwan Dam has a dam height of 35 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.