Jacobs Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Loiseau Dam Paulson Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Jacobs Dam, located in Moody, South Dakota, stands as a crucial water resource structure along a tributary of the Big Sioux River.
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Summary
Built in 1987, this earth dam boasts a height of 29 feet and a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet, serving as a vital component for water management in the region. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), ensuring its compliance with state standards for safety and maintenance.
With a low hazard potential and a "Not Rated" condition assessment, Jacobs Dam continues to fulfill its purpose of water storage and flood control effectively. The dam's maximum discharge capacity of 80 cubic feet per second, coupled with its normal storage capacity of 20 acre-feet, highlights its importance in managing water flow and mitigating potential risks during extreme weather events. While the dam has not been rated for its condition, regular inspections by state authorities indicate a commitment to ensuring its structural integrity and operational efficiency.
As a key feature in the local water infrastructure, Jacobs Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that such structures play in safeguarding communities against the impacts of climate change. With its strategic location and design, this earth dam stands as a testament to the proactive measures taken to protect against flooding and preserve water resources in the region. As climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals alike continue to monitor and assess the impact of climate change on water systems, Jacobs Dam remains a valuable asset in adapting to and mitigating potential risks in a changing climate landscape.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
276 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. BIG SIOUX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
40 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
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.
Jacobs Dam