Dry Draw Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Dry Draw Dam, located in Fall River, South Dakota, is a significant earth dam completed in 1920 with a height of 18 feet and a storage capacity of 288 acre-feet.
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Summary
Situated on the TR-Short Branch Creek, this federal-owned structure serves as a crucial water resource for the region, providing a normal storage capacity of 240 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 780 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Dry Draw Dam has not been rated for its condition, posing a potential hazard due to its significant hazard potential.
Managed by the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Dry Draw Dam's purpose and associated structures remain unspecified, with limited information available regarding its design and construction. With no state regulation or permitting requirements in place, the dam's operation, inspection, and enforcement fall under federal jurisdiction. While the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment remain unknown, its location and historical significance underscore the importance of monitoring and ensuring the safety of this essential water infrastructure for the surrounding community and ecosystem.
As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dry Draw Dam presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety. With its rich history dating back to the early 20th century, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the vital role that dams play in managing water resources and mitigating natural hazards. By examining the challenges and opportunities associated with maintaining aging infrastructure like Dry Draw Dam, stakeholders can contribute to the dialogue on sustainable water management practices and resilience in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
2000 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SHORT BRANCH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
288 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Dry Draw Dam