Denby Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Allison 1 Cat Dam Chief Dam
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Denby Dam, located in Wounded Knee, South Dakota, is a significant earth dam completed in 1939 for the primary purpose of recreation and water supply.
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Summary
Managed by the Tribal Government, this dam on Wounded Knee Creek stands at a height of 27 feet and has a length of 540 feet, with a storage capacity of 360 acre-feet. The dam also serves as a vital resource for the Oglala Lakota community, providing a surface area of 25 acres and a drainage area of 23 square miles.
Despite its age, Denby Dam has not been rated for its condition as of yet and last underwent inspection in 1978. With a significant hazard potential, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is currently unknown, raising concerns about its readiness in the event of a crisis. The dam's risk assessment and management measures remain unspecified, highlighting the need for updated safety protocols and maintenance to ensure the protection of the surrounding area and the community it serves. As a water resource and climate enthusiast, staying informed about the status of Denby Dam is crucial for understanding its impact on the local ecosystem and water supply.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
WOUNDED KNEE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
23 |
Nid Storage |
360 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Denby Dam