E.E. Pettegrew Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Romey Irrigation Dam Pettegrew Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
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Summary
Pettegrew Dam, located in South Dakota on the TRIBUTARY HORSEHEAD river, is a privately-owned structure completed in 1960 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. This 14-foot high Earth dam serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water storage, with a maximum capacity of 54 acre-feet and a normal storage of 40 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been rated, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness.
Managed by the DENR and regulated by the state of South Dakota, E.E. Pettegrew Dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's location in Fall River County underscores its importance in water resource management for the region. With a maximum discharge capacity of 780 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating potential flooding and protecting downstream communities and ecosystems. As climate change impacts water resources, the sustainable operation and maintenance of E.E. Pettegrew Dam are essential for adapting to evolving hydrological conditions.
While E.E. Pettegrew Dam currently has not been assessed for its emergency action plan or risk management measures, its strategic location and design make it a vital asset for water resource management in South Dakota. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor the condition and functionality of dams like E.E. Pettegrew to ensure their resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions and increasing water demands. The presence of structures like E.E. Pettegrew Dam highlights the interconnectedness of water resources, climate change, and infrastructure management in safeguarding communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY HORSEHEAD |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
E.E. Pettegrew Dam