Martin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Martin Dam, located in Jackson, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1940 with a height of 14 feet and a length of 500 feet.


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Summary

Situated on the tributary of the Bad River, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 198 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 78 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

While the primary purpose of Martin Dam is not specified, it serves as a crucial water resource for the area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 3500 cfs. Although the condition assessment is currently "Not Rated," the dam has not undergone any recent modifications and is deemed to have low risk potential. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place, but it meets regulatory guidelines and is equipped with emergency contacts for any unforeseen events.

Despite being privately owned, Martin Dam is subject to state jurisdiction and regulation, with regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Positioned within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management in the region, catering to the needs of both the local community and the environment.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TRIB. BAD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

198

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.