B. Silverman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

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Summary

Silverman Dam, located in Ziebach, South Dakota, along Pretty Creek, was completed in 1940 by Ducks Unlimited. This private dam, standing at a height of 21 feet and stretching 560 feet in length, serves as a crucial water resource infrastructure in the region. With a storage capacity of 490 acre-feet and a low hazard potential, this earth-type dam plays a significant role in regulating water flow and providing essential water supply for the surrounding area.

Managed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, B. Silverman Dam is subject to state regulatory oversight, including regular inspections and enforcement measures. Despite being last inspected in 1986 and rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management practices. Additionally, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet, capable of managing a maximum discharge of 1642 cubic feet per second.

While the primary purpose of B. Silverman Dam is not explicitly stated, its role in water storage and flood control is evident. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, this dam contributes to the overall water resource management efforts in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing importance in water regulation, B. Silverman Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship in ensuring sustainable water resource practices.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

PRETTY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

490

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.