Fourth Street Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Capitol Lake Dam Jensen Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
The Fourth Street Dam, located in Pierre, South Dakota, is a crucial structure regulating the flow of the Hilgers Gulch.
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Summary
Built in 1993 by the Department of Transportation (DOT), this earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and has a hydraulic height of 33 feet, with a length of 600 feet. With a storage capacity of 290 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital component in managing the water resources in the area, particularly during periods of high discharge when the uncontrolled spillway comes into play.
Despite its age, the Fourth Street Dam is in fair condition, with a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), which ensures regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam requires ongoing risk management measures to mitigate potential dangers and ensure the safety of the surrounding community. As a key structure in water resource management, the Fourth Street Dam plays a significant role in safeguarding against flooding and maintaining the ecological balance of the region.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
HILGERS GULCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
290 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
43 |
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.
Fourth Street Dam