Gorman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Gorman Dam, located in Potter, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that serves as a vital water resource in the region.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1936, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 555 feet, providing a storage capacity of 510 acre-feet. Situated on TR-ARTICHOKE CREEK, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently classified as 'Not Rated' in terms of condition assessment.

Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Gorman Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and compliance with state guidelines. The dam plays a crucial role in water management and flood control, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1530 cubic feet per second. Although specific purposes for the dam are not listed, its presence contributes to the overall water infrastructure in the area and supports sustainable water resource management practices.

With its strategic location and capacity, Gorman Dam continues to be a significant asset in the region, ensuring water supply stability and environmental protection. As climate change impacts water resources, the dam's role in mitigating risks and maintaining water quality is essential. As enthusiasts of water resource and climate issues, monitoring and supporting the sustainable management of structures like Gorman Dam is crucial for ensuring a resilient and secure water future.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

555

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-ARTICHOKE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

510

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.