Oahe Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Haskins Number 1 Al Reddin
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Oahe Dam, also known as Lake Oahe, is a federal-owned structure located in Pierre, South Dakota along the Missouri River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1966, the dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, navigation, and recreation. With a hydraulic height of 200 feet and a structural height of 245 feet, Oahe Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, with a storage capacity of 23.6 million acre-feet and a surface area of 376,000 acres.
Despite its importance in flood risk management, Oahe Dam faces a high hazard potential due to the risk of instability in its foundation, damage to the spillway, and potential overtopping during extreme flood events. The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) continuously monitors and evaluates the dam's safety and implements risk reduction measures to mitigate potential threats. Through ongoing actions, such as regular maintenance, repairs, and enhanced monitoring, USACE works to ensure the dam's reliability and reduce the risk of catastrophic failure. It is essential for downstream communities along the Missouri and Mississippi rivers to stay informed about flood risks, evacuation plans, and emergency actions to mitigate potential impacts. By building awareness and fostering collaboration with local agencies, USACE aims to enhance preparedness and resilience in the face of water resource challenges.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
9300 |
River Or Stream |
MISSOURI RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
376000 |
Hydraulic Height |
200 |
Drainage Area |
243490 |
Nid Storage |
23600000 |
Structural Height |
245 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
245 |
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.
Oahe Dam