Union Creek Watershed Dt Dam #5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Union Creek Watershed Dt Dam #5 is a vital part of South Dakota's water resource infrastructure, providing important regulation and control over the tributary of West Union Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1978 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and not yet rated for condition assessment, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and ensuring the safety of surrounding areas in Union County.
Located in the SESE of section 32-94-49, this dam is under the jurisdiction of the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. With a maximum discharge capacity of 650 cubic feet per second, Union Creek Watershed Dt Dam #5 serves as a key component of flood control and water management in the region. Despite not having an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the dam's low hazard potential and consistent state oversight contribute to its overall safety and reliability.
As an earth dam designed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Union Creek Watershed Dt Dam #5 continues to stand as a testament to effective water resource management. With its completion in 1978, this dam has provided valuable storage and regulation capabilities for the surrounding area, ensuring the efficient management of water resources in Union County, South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
414 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. W. UNION CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
56 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Sioux River At Akron
|
816cfs |
Vermillion River Nr Vermillion Sd
|
33cfs |
Perry Creek Near Milnerville
|
25cfs |
Rock River Near Rock Valley
|
321cfs |
Floyd River At James
|
187cfs |
Missouri River At Sioux City
|
15100cfs |
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.
Union Creek Watershed Dt Dam #5