Kraft Dam (Blank Dam) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Kraft Dam, also known as Blank Dam, is a state-owned structure located in South Dakota, specifically in Edmunds County.
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Summary
Built in 1939 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 470 feet in length. It serves as a vital component in managing the flow of the TR-PREACHERS RUN CREEK, with a maximum discharge capacity of 3700 cubic feet per second.
With a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet, Kraft Dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management for the surrounding area. Despite being rated as having low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections by the state regulatory agency to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet, allowing excess water to be safely released during periods of high flow.
In the event of an emergency, the dam's condition assessment, emergency action plan, and risk management measures are all key factors in ensuring the safety of downstream communities. With a moderate risk rating of 3, Kraft Dam is a vital piece of infrastructure that showcases the importance of effective water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PREACHERS RUN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Foot Creek Near Aberdeen
|
0cfs |
Elm R At Westport Sd
|
12cfs |
James R Near Stratford Sd
|
409cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
James R Near Redfield Sd
|
468cfs |
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.
Kraft Dam (Blank Dam)