Mcleod Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Mcleod Dam in South Dakota, built in 1974, stands as a private-owned structure along the tributary of Horse Creek.
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Summary
With a height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 888 acre-feet, this Earth-type dam serves as a vital water resource in Butte County. Its primary purpose remains unspecified, but its low hazard potential and unassessed condition hint at its stable and secure state.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Mcleod Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement. Its location within the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers ensures a collaborative approach to its maintenance and operation. Despite lacking detailed assessments and emergency preparedness plans, the dam's history of steady performance and minimal risk underscores its importance in maintaining water supply and controlling potential downstream flooding. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mcleod Dam presents a valuable case study in responsible dam management and the intersection of human infrastructure with natural ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
860 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. HORSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
888 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Mcleod Dam
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