Rowbotham Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rudolph Larson Gary Larson Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Perkins, South Dakota, the Rowbotham Dam stands as a testament to the state's commitment to water resource management.
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Summary
Built in 1933, this earth dam rises 22 feet high and spans 300 feet in length, providing crucial storage capacity of 200 acre-feet for the TR-MOREAU river system. The dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections, with a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated.
Despite its modest size, Rowbotham Dam plays a vital role in ensuring water security and flood control in the region. Managed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the dam represents a key piece of infrastructure in the state's efforts to safeguard its water resources. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, the dam serves as a symbol of South Dakota's dedication to sustainable water management practices.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rowbotham Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety. As the dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of water storage and flood prevention, it stands as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam management in the face of changing climate patterns. With its state-regulated status and regular inspections, Rowbotham Dam exemplifies the commitment to ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water resources in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1933 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MOREAU |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Rowbotham Dam