Pierce Dam
Key Takeaway
Pierce Dam is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 24 ft (taller than 53.3% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 440 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 266 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 4,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1935 (91 years old) |
| NID ID | SD01075 |
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 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pierce Dam?
Pierce 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 Pierce Dam?
Pierce Dam is owned by S&PL (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pierce Dam built?
Pierce Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 Pierce Dam?
Pierce Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Pierce Dam?
Pierce Dam has a dam height of 24 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 Pierce Dam last inspected?
Pierce Dam was last inspected on November 16, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.