Olsen Dam
Key Takeaway
Olsen Dam is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 33 ft (taller than 92.4% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 273 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 26 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 18 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1980 (46 years old) |
| NID ID | SD02311 |
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
MARTIN OLSEN
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Olsen Dam?
Olsen 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 Olsen Dam?
Olsen Dam is owned by MARTIN OLSEN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Olsen Dam built?
Olsen Dam was completed in 1980, making it 46 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 Olsen Dam?
Olsen Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Olsen Dam?
Olsen Dam has a dam height of 33 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.