Tower Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Tower Dam, located in Hidden Timber, South Dakota, is a private dam regulated by the state's Department of Environment and Natural Resources.


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Summary

Completed in 1934, this earth-type dam stands at 20 feet high and spans a length of 620 feet, with a storage capacity of 314 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Antelope Creek, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 800 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Tower Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The dam has not been inspected recently, and its Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status is unknown. While the dam may not be classified as high-risk, it is important for local authorities and stakeholders to ensure that proper risk management measures are in place and that emergency protocols are up to date in case of any unforeseen events. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tower Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing water for human needs and ensuring the safety and sustainability of our natural environment.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-ANTELOPE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

314

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.