Wall Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mitchell Dam W. Holmes No.2
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Wall Dam, located in Ziebach, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that serves as a crucial water resource in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1946, this earthen dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 48 acre-feet. It is situated on a tributary of Cottonwood Creek and is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, Wall Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level due to its age and condition assessment being listed as "Not Rated." The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 1560 cubic feet per second. While it currently does not have an Emergency Action Plan or updated contact information, the dam is subject to regular state inspection, enforcement, and permitting processes to ensure its safety and functionality.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wall Dam represents a significant piece of infrastructure that plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical structures to mitigate risks and ensure the sustainability of water sources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1946 |
Dam Length |
405 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
260 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Wall Dam