Buffalo Lake Road Dam 2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Buffalo Lake Road Dam 1 A. Simons
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Buffalo Lake Road Dam 2, also known as Howes Grazing Lake, is a state-owned earth dam located in Meade, South Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1961 by the Department of Transportation, this dam stands at a height of 82 feet and has a storage capacity of 2850 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1700 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR CHEYENNE river and is regulated by the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Buffalo Lake Road Dam 2 is a crucial piece of infrastructure that requires regular inspections and maintenance. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 4 feet and has not been rated for its current condition. The last inspection was conducted in October 2018, with a frequency of every 3 years to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Buffalo Lake Road Dam 2 offers an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a key component in the water management system of Meade County, South Dakota. Understanding the design, construction, and maintenance of this earth dam can provide valuable insights into the challenges and responsibilities associated with managing water resources in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
82 |
River Or Stream |
TR CHEYENNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
82 |
Nid Storage |
2850 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
82 |
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.
Buffalo Lake Road Dam 2