Collins Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Collins Dam, located on the TR CHEYENNE river in Meade, South Dakota, was completed in 1949 and stands at a height of 21 feet with a length of 550 feet.
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Summary
Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources and has a low hazard potential. Despite being an Earth dam type, Collins Dam has a maximum storage capacity of 118 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 36 acre-feet.
The dam, constructed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, providing flood control and water storage capabilities. With a maximum discharge capacity of 3000 cubic feet per second, Collins Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for maintaining water security and mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events on the surrounding areas. Although the dam's condition is currently not rated, ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight ensure its continued safe operation.
Situated within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers jurisdiction, Collins Dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and state agencies in maintaining critical water infrastructure. As climate change intensifies, the importance of dams like Collins in managing water resources and adapting to evolving climatic conditions becomes increasingly evident. Enthusiasts and stakeholders in water resource and climate management can appreciate the role of Collins Dam in safeguarding communities and ecosystems in Meade, South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR CHEYENNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
118 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Collins Dam