Delbridge Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: C. Steen Circle Eagle
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Delbridge Dam, located in Meade, South Dakota, is a private-owned earth dam that was completed in 1931.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 48 acre-feet. It is situated on the TR CHEYENNE river and is under state jurisdiction, regulated by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Despite its age, Delbridge Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and its condition is currently rated as "Not Rated". The dam has not been assessed for emergency action plans or risk management measures, indicating potential areas for improvement in terms of safety and preparedness. The dam is not under the authority of the US Army Corps of Engineers, highlighting the responsibility of the private owner in ensuring the integrity and maintenance of the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Delbridge Dam serves as a historical landmark in South Dakota's water infrastructure. Its presence on the TR CHEYENNE river contributes to the local hydrology and provides valuable storage for agricultural and environmental purposes. As discussions around dam safety and resilience continue to evolve, Delbridge Dam represents a case study in the ongoing efforts to balance water management needs with environmental protection and public safety.
Year Completed |
1931 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR CHEYENNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cheyenne R Near Plainview Sd
|
0cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Belle Fourche River Near Elm Springs
|
17900cfs |
Elk Cr Near Elm Springs Sd
|
0cfs |
Cheyenne River Near Wasta
|
190cfs |
Belle Fourche R Near Sturgis Sd
|
34cfs |
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.
Delbridge Dam