Deerfield Park Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deerfield Park in Pennington, South Dakota, is a privately owned dam situated on Slate Creek, completed in 1981.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 36 feet and spans 375 feet, providing a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. The dam serves a critical purpose in flood control and water management, with a drainage area of 10 square miles and the capability to discharge up to 8200 cubic feet per second.

Despite its high hazard potential, Deerfield Park's dam is deemed to be in fair condition as of the last assessment in November 2020. The dam is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in April 2006, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management and preparedness in the face of potential emergencies.

Located within the Omaha District, Deerfield Park is a vital component of the water resource infrastructure in the region, contributing to the sustainable management of water resources and protection against flooding. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the significance of Deerfield Park in safeguarding the surrounding community and environment from potential water-related risks and emergencies.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

SLATE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

350

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.