Praire Farms Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Irwin Dam Blessing No.1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Praire Farms Dam, located in Tripp, South Dakota, stands as a testament to engineering excellence since its completion in 1976.
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Summary
This private-owned Earth dam, towering at a height of 25 feet and spanning 1000 feet in length, serves as a vital structure along the WEST BRANCH BULL CREEK. With a maximum storage capacity of 800 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 400 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Maintained under the regulatory oversight of the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Praire Farms Dam boasts a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. Despite its last inspection dating back to 1983, the dam continues to function effectively, ensuring minimal risk to surrounding communities while providing essential water storage and flood control benefits. The dam's spillway capacity and discharge capabilities further underscore its importance in mitigating potential water-related risks in the area.
As water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates continue to recognize the importance of sustainable infrastructure, Praire Farms Dam stands as a reliable asset in South Dakota's water management network. With its strategic location, efficient design, and historical significance, this dam serves as a symbol of resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions. By upholding rigorous inspection and maintenance standards, the dam remains a vital component in safeguarding water resources for both present and future generations.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
WEST BRANCH BULL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
800 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1650cfs |
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
191cfs |
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.
Praire Farms Dam