Corn Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Berry Dam Anderson #1
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Corn Creek Dam, located in Mellette, South Dakota, stands as a testament to effective water resource management by the Tribal Government.
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Summary
Built in 1935, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of water supply, with a storage capacity of 460 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 3200 cubic feet per second. The dam stands at a height of 29 feet and stretches 480 feet in length, providing essential water resources for the region.
Situated on the TR Black Pipe Creek, Corn Creek Dam is a critical infrastructure supporting both recreational activities and water supply needs in the area. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. With its strategic location and historical significance, Corn Creek Dam serves as a vital resource for the community, ensuring a reliable water source and environmental sustainability for years to come.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the role of dams like Corn Creek Dam becomes increasingly essential in ensuring water availability and security. Supported by the St. Paul District and overseen by the Tribal Government, this dam stands as a symbol of cooperation and effective management in the face of evolving environmental challenges. Its historical legacy and ongoing contribution to water supply and recreation make Corn Creek Dam a cornerstone of sustainable water resource management in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR BLACK PIPE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
460 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Corn Creek Dam