Mayer Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cable Dams Weisner Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mayer Dam, located in Buffalo, South Dakota, was completed in 1951 and stands at a height of 28 feet with a length of 380 feet.
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Summary
Owned privately, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's primary purpose and specific design features are not explicitly outlined in the data, but it is classified as an Earth dam, with a maximum storage capacity of 25 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 15 acre-feet.
With a significant hazard potential, Mayer Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite lacking specific details on emergency action plans and risk management measures, the dam poses a notable risk due to its location and potential impact on the surrounding area. The dam is situated along a river or stream that has not been rated, with a maximum discharge capacity of 660 cubic feet per second. While there is no information on associated structures or recent inspections, the dam's overall risk assessment and management practices remain unclear.
In terms of federal involvement, Mayer Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers but is not owned, funded, or constructed by any federal agencies. The dam is situated in a region represented by Congressman Dusty Johnson and serves as a key water resource in the state of South Dakota. With its historical significance and vital role in water management, Mayer Dam stands as a noteworthy structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and study in the context of dam safety and environmental impact.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Nid Storage |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
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 Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
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.
Mayer Dam