Estabrook Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Estabrook Dam, located in Aurora, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that has been regulated and permitted by the state's Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
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Summary
Built in 1976, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and stretches 400 feet in length. It provides a storage capacity of 320 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 210 acre-feet, serving the purpose of water resource management for the surrounding area.
Despite its low hazard potential, Estabrook Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam has not been inspected recently, and there is no information available on emergency action plans or risk management measures. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1250 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the tributary of Firesteel Creek. As a significant structure in the area, it is important to ensure that proper maintenance and safety measures are in place to prevent any potential risks to the community and environment.
With the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers overseeing the dam, it is essential for stakeholders to collaborate on regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness to safeguard the integrity of Estabrook Dam. The involvement of federal agencies, along with state regulations and ownership, highlights the importance of proactive management to ensure the continued functionality and safety of this vital water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. FIRESTEEL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
320 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
James R Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
James R Near Mitchell Sd
|
659cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
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.
Estabrook Dam