Mirage Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Mirage, also known as Doland, is a state-owned earth dam located in South Dakota, specifically in Spink County.


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Summary

Built in 1972 by GF&P, the dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 1600 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 810 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Timber Creek Tributary and is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Mirage serves as a vital structure for water resource management in the area. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 130 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 5000 cubic feet per second. Despite not having a condition rating, the dam undergoes inspections every three years, with the last inspection date recorded in October 2019. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, it meets regulatory guidelines and contributes to the overall risk management measures for the region.

Mirage plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water supply reliability in the region. By harnessing the flow of the Timber Creek Tributary, the dam provides essential storage capacity for irrigation, drinking water, and other agricultural and municipal uses. With state and federal oversight in place, including the involvement of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Mirage stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in South Dakota.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

720

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TIMBER CREEK TRIBUTARY

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

29

Nid Storage

1600

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

38
       
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.