Cresbard Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Batteen Dam Hamak
Last Updated: January 7, 2026
Cresbard Dam, located in Faulk County, South Dakota, is a state-regulated structure built in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
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Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 22 feet and a length of 760 feet, serves the primary purpose of water storage on the TR-Snake river. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 904 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 300 acre-feet, providing important water resources for the surrounding area.
With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Cresbard Dam is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 136 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 7650 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the condition assessment of the dam is currently listed as "Not Rated", highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks associated with the structure.
The dam, managed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), plays a crucial role in flood control and water management in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing importance for water resource management, Cresbard Dam stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of New Deal-era infrastructure projects in the United States.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
760 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SNAKE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
58 |
Nid Storage |
904 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
James R Near Stratford Sd
|
409cfs |
Foot Creek Near Aberdeen
|
0cfs |
James R Near Redfield Sd
|
468cfs |
Elm R At Westport Sd
|
12cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
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.
Cresbard Dam