Houghton Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Houghton Dam, also known as Mud Lake Dam, is a federal-owned structure located in Brown County, South Dakota, along the James River.
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Summary
Built in 1938 by the Fish and Wildlife Service, this Earth-type dam stands at 7 feet high and stretches 4439 feet in length. Its primary purpose is to serve as a fish and wildlife pond, with a normal storage capacity of 7809 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 43524 acre-feet.
Despite its low hazard potential, Houghton Dam's condition assessment is marked as poor as of October 2020. The dam has undergone modifications in 1955 for structural improvements. It is inspected every 5 years by the Fish and Wildlife Service, which also operates and maintains the facility. The dam's emergency action plan readiness and risk management measures are currently unspecified, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality.
With its historical significance and importance in supporting local wildlife habitats, Houghton Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and environmental conservation efforts. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Houghton Dam will be crucial in ensuring the resilience of ecosystems and water supplies in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Years Modified |
1955 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
4439 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
James River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6022 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Nid Storage |
43524 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James River At Nd-Sd State Line
|
194cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
Elm R At Westport Sd
|
12cfs |
Maple R At Nd-Sd State Line
|
5cfs |
Foot Creek Near Aberdeen
|
0cfs |
Bear Creek Nr Oakes
|
5cfs |
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.
Houghton Dam