Otto Ericson Dam No.1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kukuchka Dam Delzer No.1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Otto Ericson Dam No.1, located in Butte, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1948.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. It spans a length of 750 feet and is designed to regulate the flow of water from a tributary to Antelope Creek, with a maximum discharge capacity of 800 cfs.
Although the dam is classified as low hazard potential and has not been officially rated for its condition, it is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but its location and design suggest a focus on water resource management and flood control. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment details are not provided, indicating a potential area for improvement in terms of emergency preparedness and risk management.
In conclusion, Otto Ericson Dam No.1 serves as a key infrastructure for water resource management in South Dakota, with a focus on regulating water flow and storage capacity in the region. While its low hazard potential and state-regulated status provide some assurance of safety, the lack of detailed condition assessment and emergency preparedness information raises potential areas for improvement in ensuring the dam's resilience to climate impacts and unexpected events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities and vulnerabilities of infrastructure like Otto Ericson Dam No.1 can inform efforts to enhance sustainability and resilience in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO ANTELOPE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Otto Ericson Dam No.1