Pauli Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Snavely No. 1 Snavely No. 2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Pauli Dam, located in Tripp, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that serves as a crucial water resource in the area.
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Summary
Built in 1964, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 480 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 27 acre-feet. While primarily used for off-stream water management on the White River, this dam also plays a role in flood control and irrigation in the region. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, its state-regulated status ensures that it undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Pauli Dam is equipped with necessary infrastructure for its operations, including outlet gates and a maximum discharge capacity of 840 cubic feet per second. The dam's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," indicating the need for further evaluation to ensure its continued functionality and safety. Although its emergency action plan status and risk assessment details are yet to be finalized, the dam's strategic location and design underscore its significance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in South Dakota.
In the realm of water resource and climate conservation, Pauli Dam stands as a vital structure in Tripp, South Dakota, contributing to the sustainable management of the White River and surrounding areas. With its state-regulated status and low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control, irrigation, and water storage. As efforts continue to assess its condition and enhance emergency preparedness, Pauli Dam remains a key asset in the region's water infrastructure, supported by the expertise of the Natural Resources Conservation Service and ongoing regulatory oversight from the state.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE RIVER OFF STREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Little White R Below White River Sd
|
141cfs |
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.
Pauli Dam