Trotter Ranch Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Caylor Ranch Dam Duck Creek Dam No.2
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Trotter Ranch Dam, located in Fall River, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure regulated by the state's Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
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Summary
Built in 1957, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 490 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. The dam, situated on a tributary of the Cheyenne River, serves the primary purpose of water resource management for agricultural and environmental needs in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential, Trotter Ranch Dam has not been formally rated for its condition assessment. However, it undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow, especially during periods of high discharge reaching up to 585 cubic feet per second. With a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet, the dam contributes to local water supply and supports the surrounding ecosystem.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Trotter Ranch Dam for its historical significance and contributions to sustainable water management practices in South Dakota. As a key structure on the Cheyenne River tributary, the dam's presence underscores the importance of maintaining and regulating water resources for both human and environmental well-being. With its low hazard potential and consistent state oversight, Trotter Ranch Dam stands as a testament to responsible dam construction and management in the region.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
490 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF CHEYENNE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Trotter Ranch Dam