Okaton Dam
Key Takeaway
Okaton Dam is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 22 ft (taller than 45.6% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 320 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 200 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 2,900 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
| NID ID | SD02336 |
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
S&PL
State Government
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Low Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Okaton Dam?
Okaton 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 Okaton Dam?
Okaton Dam is owned by S&PL (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Okaton Dam built?
Okaton Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Okaton Dam?
Okaton Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Okaton Dam?
Okaton Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Okaton Dam last inspected?
Okaton Dam was last inspected on October 25, 2011. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.