Canal Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Fall River, South Dakota, the Canal Dam stands as a testament to water resource management in the region.


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Summary

Built in 1952, this earth dam has a height of 11 feet and a length of 600 feet, providing storage capacity for 53 acre-feet of water. While its primary purpose is not specified, the dam is state-regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring proper inspection and enforcement measures are in place.

Managed by a private owner, the Canal Dam is classified as having low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively with a maximum discharge capacity of 910 cubic feet per second. With a history of no reported incidents, the Canal Dam stands as a reliable structure within the region's water infrastructure network.

At a latitude of 43.211667 and longitude of -103.438333, the Canal Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources for the surrounding area. With state-mandated inspections in place, the dam ensures the safety of nearby communities and maintains a steady flow of water for agricultural and environmental needs. As a key component of the water management system in Fall River, South Dakota, the Canal Dam exemplifies the importance of proper regulation and maintenance in sustaining water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY DRYCREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

53

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.