Ahrenstorff Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sd Noname 6 Chmela Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ahrenstorff Dam, located in Buffalo, South Dakota, was completed in 1952 and stands at a height of 26 feet with a length of 300 feet.
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Summary
This earth dam, managed by a private owner, has a low hazard potential and is currently in a not rated condition assessment status. With a maximum storage capacity of 28 acre-feet and a normal storage of 26 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.
Owned by a private entity, Ahrenstorff Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement activities. The dam, designed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, serves a primary purpose that is not specified in the data provided, but it contributes to flood control, water supply, irrigation, or other water resource management objectives in the region. The dam's location in the St. Paul District adds to its significance in the overall water resource infrastructure of the area.
With a spillway width and other specific details not mentioned in the data, Ahrenstorff Dam remains a key structure in the local water management system. While it currently meets guidelines for emergency action preparation, there are no inundation maps prepared or risk assessment details provided. As a critical piece of infrastructure in the region, the dam continues to play a vital role in ensuring water resource sustainability and climate resilience in Buffalo, South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
James R Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
James R Near Mitchell Sd
|
659cfs |
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.
Ahrenstorff Dam