Carter Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gregg Dam Horstman #1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Carter Dam, located in Tripp, South Dakota, is a private dam constructed in 1936 for the primary purpose of water resource management.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Owned and regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the dam stands at a height of 17 feet with a length of 1520 feet, providing a storage capacity of 374 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the White River off-stream and is under the jurisdiction of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Carter Dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management in the region. Despite lacking an official emergency action plan (EAP) and updated inspection records, the dam continues to operate efficiently, meeting state regulatory standards for inspection and enforcement. The dam's maximum discharge capacity of 3600 cubic feet per second ensures proper flood control measures are in place for the surrounding area.
As a pivotal structure in the water resource infrastructure of South Dakota, Carter Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. Its strategic location, efficient design, and regulatory compliance highlight the essential role dams play in ensuring water security and environmental resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
1520 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE RIVER OFF STREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
374 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Little White R Below White River Sd
|
141cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
Niobrara River Near Sparks
|
934cfs |
Little White R Near Rosebud Sd
|
96cfs |
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.
Carter Dam