Ponca
Key Takeaway
Ponca is classified as high hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 580 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Normal Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Year Completed | 1935 (91 years old) |
| NID ID | SD00545 |
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
BIA
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Lake Berry Dam
Gregory, SD
Low Hazard 21 ftOscar Micheaux Dam
Gregory, SD
Low Hazard 40 ftLeonard Ziesier No.1
Gregory, SD
Low Hazard 30 ftHerrick Lake
Gregory, SD
Low Hazard 20 ftLogan Thoene No.1
Gregory, SD
Low Hazard 63 ftFuhrer Irrigation Dam
Boyd, NE
Low Hazard 35 ftHamling Dam
Boyd, NE
Low Hazard 33 ftCline Dam
Boyd, NE
Low Hazard 43 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ponca?
Ponca 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 Ponca?
Ponca is owned by BIA (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ponca built?
Ponca 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 Ponca?
Ponca serves the following purposes: Irrigation, 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.
When was Ponca last inspected?
Ponca was last inspected on August 6, 2012. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.