Pactola Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pactola Dam, located in South Dakota along the Rapid Creek, is a key structure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Completed in 1959, this earth dam stands at a towering height of 245 feet, with a length of 1255 feet and a storage capacity of 140,898 acre-feet. The dam's primary purposes include flood risk reduction, irrigation, recreation, and water supply for the surrounding area.

With a maximum discharge of 255,000 cubic feet per second and a high hazard potential, Pactola Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam has undergone modifications in 1987 to enhance its hydraulic and structural components, ensuring its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the community. Despite its importance, detailed condition assessments and risk management measures for Pactola Dam are currently unavailable, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its safety and functionality.

As a federal-owned structure under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Reclamation, Pactola Dam serves as a vital asset in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. Its strategic location, impressive dimensions, and multi-purpose functionalities make it a significant landmark in the region, contributing to the overall sustainability and safety of water-related activities in South Dakota.

Years Modified

1987 - Hydraulic, 1987 - Structural

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

1255

Dam Height

245

River Or Stream

RAPID CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1557

Hydraulic Height

230

Drainage Area

229

Nid Storage

140898

Structural Height

245

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

245
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.