Simon Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Simon Dam, located in Potter, South Dakota, is a state-owned structure with a historical significance as it was completed in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a storage capacity of 1260 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 611 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Simon Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. It has a spillway width of 70 feet and can discharge up to 2940 cubic feet per second in case of excess water flow. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition, with the last inspection conducted in November 2019. The dam also has emergency action plans in place, ensuring preparedness for any unforeseen events.
Simon Dam exemplifies the intersection of historical significance and modern-day functionality in water resource management. As a key structure in the St. Paul District, it serves as a vital component in the overall water infrastructure of South Dakota. This earth dam not only provides essential storage capacity but also contributes to flood control measures in the region, highlighting its importance in both water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
490 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MISSONot RatedI |
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
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
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.
Simon Dam