Potts Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Potts Dam, located in Potter County, South Dakota, is a state-regulated earth dam constructed in 1935 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans a length of 610 feet, with a storage capacity of 1,260 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-OKOBOJO CREEK, the dam serves as a crucial water resource for the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2,040 cubic feet per second.
Although categorized as having a low hazard potential, Potts Dam is subject to regular state inspections, with the last inspection conducted in November 2019. The dam does not currently have an assigned condition rating and is not covered by an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, Potts Dam remains a vital infrastructure for water management in the area. With its historical significance and continued role in water resource management, Potts Dam serves as a key feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
610 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-OKOBOJO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
1260 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Potts Dam