Sorum Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Keith Hansen Gilbert Ranches Pond No.
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Sorum Dam, located in Perkins, South Dakota, is a state-regulated earth dam constructed in 1934 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 33 feet and a length of 500 feet, this dam on the TR-MOREAU river has a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1150 acre-feet. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 50 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second.
Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, Sorum Dam is subject to regular inspections by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has not been assessed for condition but has a moderate risk rating of 3. While it currently does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place, the dam is equipped with outlet gates and has emergency contacts on file.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Sorum Dam will appreciate its historical significance and the engineering marvels of its construction. With its vital role in water storage and flood control on the TR-MOREAU river, Sorum Dam stands as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in managing water resources and adapting to climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MOREAU |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Nid Storage |
2000 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
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.
Sorum Dam