Deer Creek South Reservoir Report
Nearby: Deer Creek North Vobedja
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Deer Creek South is a federal-owned dam located in Perkins, South Dakota, along the Deer Creek river.
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Summary
Built in 1991, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 400 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Deer Creek South serves as a crucial water resource structure in the area.
Managed by the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Deer Creek South plays a vital role in regulating water flow and providing flood control for the surrounding area. Despite not being state regulated or permitted, this dam ensures a controlled discharge of up to 560 cubic feet per second in times of high water levels. Additionally, with its emergency action plan preparedness yet to be assessed, Deer Creek South remains a key infrastructure for water management in South Dakota.
As an essential part of the local water infrastructure, Deer Creek South stands as a testament to federal investment in water resource management. With its strategic location along the Deer Creek river and low hazard potential, this dam continues to play a crucial role in maintaining water security and climate resilience for the community of Perkins, South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
DEER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Deer Creek South