Rosette Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Goebel Ranch Dam Krein Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Rosette Dam in South Dakota, completed in 1937, stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earthen dam on Snake Creek Tributary boasts a height of 17 feet and a storage capacity of 283 acre-feet, serving as a vital water resource for the region. While its primary purpose is not specified, the dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment highlight its importance in mitigating potential flooding and ensuring water security for the local community.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), Rosette Dam undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to maintain its structural integrity. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam features a spillway width of 50 feet to manage excess water flow during heavy rainfall events. With Congressman Dusty Johnson overseeing the area, Rosette Dam plays a crucial role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the Edmunds County region. As a key infrastructure project, it serves as a critical component in the overall water resource management strategy for the area.
With its historic significance and practical utility, Rosette Dam serves as a vital water resource infrastructure in South Dakota. As climate change impacts intensify, the dam's role in ensuring water security and flood protection becomes increasingly crucial. As efforts to enhance its risk management measures continue, Rosette Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of engineering innovation, environmental stewardship, and community resilience in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
SNAKE CREEK TRIB |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
283 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Foot Creek Near Aberdeen
|
0cfs |
Elm R At Westport Sd
|
12cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
James R Near Stratford Sd
|
409cfs |
Maple R At Nd-Sd State Line
|
5cfs |
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
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.
Rosette Dam