Cable Dams Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wiesner Dam 1 Weisner Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Cable Dams, located in Buffalo, South Dakota, is a private-owned earth dam completed in 1947 with a height of 28 feet and a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet.
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Summary
The dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. Despite its low hazard potential and "Not Rated" condition assessment, Cable Dams plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 612 cubic feet per second.
Situated in the St. Paul District, Cable Dams serves as a key structure for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates interested in the management and conservation of water resources in South Dakota. The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but its location on the TR-MISSONot RatedI river or stream highlights its importance in the local watershed. With Dusty Johnson (R) as the representative for the area, the dam's role in flood control, irrigation, and water supply underscores its significance in the region's hydrological dynamics.
While Cable Dams' risk assessment, emergency action plan, and inundation maps are not specified, its presence in Buffalo, South Dakota, signifies its importance in the local water infrastructure. The dam's 380-foot length and 54 acre-foot storage capacity contribute to its role in water management and conservation efforts. As a privately owned structure, Cable Dams exemplifies the collaboration between private owners and state agencies in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
James R Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
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.
Cable Dams