Irwin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Irwin Dam, located in Tripp, South Dakota, stands as a significant earth dam structure along the White River off stream.


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Summary

Completed in 1938, this privately owned dam has a height of 20 feet and a length of 1400 feet, providing vital water storage with a capacity of 684 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose and specific design features remain unspecified, but its low hazard potential and "Not Rated" condition assessment suggest a stable and secure structure.

Operated by a private entity and regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Irwin Dam has undergone inspections for safety and compliance with state regulations. Despite not being associated with any federal agencies, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management within the region. With its low hazard potential and limited risk assessment data available, Irwin Dam serves as a key component in the local water infrastructure, contributing to the overall climate resilience and water security in the area.

Although lacking detailed information on emergency action plans and risk management measures, Irwin Dam remains a vital piece of infrastructure in maintaining water resources in South Dakota. With its historical significance dating back to the late 1930s, the dam continues to provide essential water storage and management capabilities for the surrounding community. As climate enthusiasts and water resource stakeholders, understanding and monitoring the condition and operation of Irwin Dam is essential in ensuring its continued effectiveness and safety for years to come.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

WHITE RIVER OFF STREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

17

Nid Storage

684

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.