Sturgis #5

ALAKLI CREEK· Meade, South Dakota· Built 1959· Earth· 44 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Sturgis #5 is classified as significant hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1959 and is 67 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 44 ft (taller than 97.8% in SD)
Dam Length290 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage90 acre-ft
Normal Storage45 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge210 cfs
Year Completed1959 (67 years old)
NID IDSD02258

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: August 1, 1986
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DANR

Ownership

CITY OF STURGIS

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Sturgis #5?

Sturgis #5 is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Sturgis #5?

Sturgis #5 is owned by CITY OF STURGIS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Sturgis #5 built?

Sturgis #5 was completed in 1959, making it 67 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 Sturgis #5?

Sturgis #5 serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Sturgis #5?

Sturgis #5 has a dam height of 44 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 Sturgis #5 last inspected?

Sturgis #5 was last inspected on August 1, 1986. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.