Reliance Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Thompson Dam Schindler Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Reliance Dam, located in OACOMA, South Dakota, is a state-regulated structure on the CROW CREEK river.
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Summary
Built in 1935, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a storage capacity of 530 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of flood control and water supply for the surrounding area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1425 cubic feet per second.
Despite its age, Reliance Dam has a significant hazard potential and is in need of regular inspections, with the last inspection conducted in October 2017. The dam's condition is currently rated as "Not Rated," highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its structural integrity. While it meets state regulatory guidelines for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, there is room for improvement in emergency preparedness and risk assessment to mitigate potential hazards associated with the dam.
With its historical significance and critical role in water resource management, Reliance Dam stands as a testament to the engineering feats of the past. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of maintaining and safeguarding such structures to ensure the safety and well-being of surrounding communities and ecosystems. By staying informed and advocating for proper maintenance and risk management measures, we can help protect vital water resources for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
525 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
CROW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
15 |
Nid Storage |
530 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
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.
Reliance Dam