Wulff Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wooledge Dam C. Wulff Stockwater Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Wulff Dam, located in Buffalo, South Dakota, was completed in 1952 and stands at a height of 26 feet, with a length of 475 feet.
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Summary
Managed by a private owner, this earth dam serves the purpose of regulating water flow along the TR-MISSONot RatedI river or stream. The dam has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 660 cubic feet per second.
With its low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Wulff Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. While there are no associated structures or significant modifications to the dam in recent years, it is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The dam is also subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its compliance with safety and environmental standards.
Despite its relatively modest size and storage capacity, Wulff Dam remains an essential part of the water infrastructure in Buffalo, South Dakota. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the proper maintenance and regulation of dams like Wulff become increasingly vital for the sustainability of local ecosystems and communities. Through continued monitoring and adherence to regulatory guidelines, Wulff Dam will continue to fulfill its role in water management for years to come.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
475 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
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 |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
James R Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
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.
Wulff Dam