Gavins Point Dam - Yankton Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gavins Point Dam Buffalo Creek Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Gavins Point Dam, also known as Yankton Dam, is a federal structure located on the Missouri River in Yankton, South Dakota.
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Summary
Completed in 1958 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 74 feet and spans a length of 8700 feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam also serves hydroelectric, irrigation, navigation, and recreation purposes, encompassing a surface area of 32,000 acres and a drainage area of 16,000 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, Gavins Point Dam is subject to a very high flood risk rating, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures by the US Army Corps of Engineers. These measures include continuous monitoring of the dam's condition, prioritizing activities to reduce risks, and engaging with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and preparedness for potential dam-related emergencies. The dam's emergency action plan is regularly updated, and maintenance and repairs are conducted as needed to ensure its proper functioning and structural integrity.
In the face of unpredictable weather events and the inherent limitations of dam storage capacity, Gavins Point Dam remains a critical component in mitigating flood risks along the Missouri River. By implementing robust risk management strategies and maintaining strong partnerships with local stakeholders, the dam continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the surrounding communities and environments from potential flooding hazards.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
8700 |
River Or Stream |
MISSOURI RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32000 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
16000 |
Nid Storage |
540000 |
Structural Height |
74 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
74 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James River Nr Yankton Sd
|
752cfs |
James R Near Scotland Sd
|
706cfs |
Bazile Creek Near Niobrara
|
192cfs |
Bazile Creek At Center
|
85cfs |
Vermillion River Nr Vermillion Sd
|
33cfs |
Verdigre C Nr Verdigre
|
206cfs |
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.
Gavins Point Dam - Yankton Dam
Gavins Tailwaters North