Mcgee Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Richard Glines Pudwell Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mcgee Dam, located in Bullhead, South Dakota, is a state-owned structure that was completed in 1934.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 21 feet and a length of 1177 feet, serves the primary purpose of water resource management on the TR-IRON DOG river or stream. With a normal storage capacity of 251 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 512 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the area.
Designed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), Mcgee Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a rating of 3 out of 5, there are currently no condition ratings available, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks.
In the event of an emergency, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, indicating a potential area for improvement in terms of preparedness. With its historical significance and critical role in water management, Mcgee Dam stands as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in safeguarding our water resources and adapting to the changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
1177 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-IRON DOG |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
397 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cedar Creek Nr Raleigh
|
20cfs |
Cannonball River Nr Raleigh
|
40cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Cannonball River At Breien
|
96cfs |
Antelope Creek Nr Carson
|
2cfs |
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.
Mcgee Dam