Kroetch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kroetch Dam, located in Haakon, South Dakota, is a state-regulated earth dam built in 1939 along the TR-Cheyenne River.


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Summary

With a height of 18 feet and a length of 750 feet, this dam has a maximum storage capacity of 748 acre-feet and a normal storage of 384 acre-feet. The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of November 2020.

Despite its age, Kroetch Dam continues to serve its primary purpose of water storage and flood control effectively. The dam is inspected every three years, with the last assessment conducted in November 2020. While it meets state regulatory standards for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, there are no associated structures or designated purposes beyond its core function as an earth dam along the Cheyenne River.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kroetch Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, hydrology, and environmental management. As one of the many dams in South Dakota that contribute to water storage and flood mitigation efforts, Kroetch Dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding communities and ecosystems. With ongoing inspections and maintenance, this historic dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-CHEYENNE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

748

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.