Rank Dam, located in Buffalo, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure designed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935.
Wind
Humidity
It stands at a height of 40 feet and spans a length of 740 feet, with a storage capacity of 1340 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 5 square miles, the dam has a maximum discharge rate of 3102 cubic feet per second and features an uncontrolled spillway that is 120 feet wide.
Despite its historical significance and vital role in water resource management, Rank Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in 2017 reported the dam's structural integrity to be compromised, highlighting the urgent need for maintenance and rehabilitation. The risk assessment categorizes the dam as having a moderate risk level, indicating the importance of implementing proper risk management measures to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts should take note of Rank Dam's critical condition and the associated risks it poses. As a key component of the local infrastructure, efforts must be made to address the dam's maintenance needs and ensure its long-term stability. With its rich history and significant impact on the surrounding area, Rank Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive management and investment in sustainable water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
740 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
40 |
Drainage Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
1340 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Right Tailrace - COE
|
||
Left Tailrace - Lake Sharpe
|
||
Old Fort Thompson - COE
|
||
North Shore -COE
|