Rank Dam
Key Takeaway
Rank Dam is classified as high hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 Height | 40 ft (taller than 96.5% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 740 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 750 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 42 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,102 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1935 (91 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1992 |
| NID ID | SD00715 |
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
CLAYTON KNIPPLING
Private
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Low Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rank Dam?
Rank Dam 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 Rank Dam?
Rank Dam is owned by CLAYTON KNIPPLING (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rank Dam built?
Rank 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 Rank Dam?
Rank 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 Rank Dam?
Rank Dam has a dam height of 40 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 Rank Dam last inspected?
Rank Dam was last inspected on November 2, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.