Richard Cobb Reservoir Report
Nearby: Alfred Cowan Jake Kern
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Richard Cobb is a privately owned earth dam located in Corson, South Dakota, along Cottonwood Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1950, this dam stands at 20 feet high and spans 230 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 240 acre-feet. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Richard Cobb is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement standards.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Richard Cobb poses minimal risk to its surrounding area. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively, providing crucial water resource management along Cottonwood Creek. As a notable feature in the St. Paul District, this dam contributes to the overall resilience of South Dakota's water infrastructure, especially in times of climate variability and change.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor the state of dams like Richard Cobb, it is essential to recognize the role these structures play in sustainable water management. By adhering to state regulations and undergoing regular inspections, dams like Richard Cobb ensure the safety and reliability of water resources in South Dakota, highlighting the importance of proactive maintenance and risk management in the face of evolving climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
230 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
240 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Richard Cobb