Pattee Creek Watershed Dam No.4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Pattee Creek Watershed Dam No.4, located in Lincoln, South Dakota, was completed in 1975 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a crucial water resource management structure in the area.


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Summary

The dam, primarily owned by the local government, has a height of 27 feet and a length of 950 feet, with a storage capacity of 410 acre-feet. It is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and efficiency.

This Earth-type dam on a tributary of Pattee Creek plays a significant role in flood control and water supply management in the region. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam is considered to be in satisfactory condition. Despite not having a specific primary purpose listed, the dam's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflect its importance in mitigating potential risks and enhancing water resource sustainability. Furthermore, the dam's location in a rural area underscores its critical role in protecting local communities from potential flood events.

The St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees the management of Pattee Creek Watershed Dam No.4, ensuring that it meets state regulatory guidelines and operates effectively. While specific emergency action plans and risk assessments are not currently available for the dam, its presence and functionality demonstrate a proactive approach to water resource management and climate resilience in the area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Dam No.4 highlights the interconnectedness of infrastructure, natural systems, and community well-being in maintaining sustainable water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

950

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TRIB. PATTEE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

410

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.