Tate Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Tate Dam, situated in Todd, South Dakota, along Antelope Creek, was completed in 1986 and stands at a height of 14 feet.


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Summary

Owned privately, this earth dam boasts a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and serves a primary purpose that is not specified. With a low hazard potential and a "Not Rated" condition assessment, Tate Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, ensuring regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement measures are in place.

Despite its relatively modest size, Tate Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 79 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1535 cubic feet per second. The dam's location within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers adds an additional layer of oversight, although it is not operated by a federal agency. While details on the dam's spillway type and gates are unavailable, its overall design as an earth dam suggests a focus on cost-effective construction methods while providing essential flood control and water storage capabilities.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tate Dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure in South Dakota's water management system. Its presence along Antelope Creek helps regulate water flow, reduce flood risks, and ensure a stable water supply for surrounding communities. With its low hazard potential and state-regulated status, Tate Dam stands as a testament to the importance of effective dam construction and maintenance in safeguarding against water-related emergencies and preserving valuable natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

770

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

ANTELOPE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

79

Nid Storage

300

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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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.