Mitchell Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wall Dam R. Fields No.5
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Mitchell Dam, located in Ziebach, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1978 with a height of 25 feet and a length of 680 feet.
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Summary
The dam is situated on a tributary of Cottonwood Creek and has a storage capacity of 237 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 2787 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
The primary purpose of Mitchell Dam is not specified, but it serves as a crucial water resource infrastructure in the region. The dam, designed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, plays a role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the area. Although its condition assessment is not rated, the dam has not experienced any major modifications or incidents that compromise its structural integrity. With its location in a rural area and limited associated structures, Mitchell Dam continues to contribute to water management efforts while maintaining a low risk profile.
Overall, Mitchell Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. As climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals continue to monitor and assess the resilience of infrastructure like Mitchell Dam, it serves as a reminder of the crucial role these structures play in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the impacts of climate change. With ongoing regulatory oversight and maintenance, Mitchell Dam remains a vital component of the water infrastructure network in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
680 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
237 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cheyenne R Near Plainview Sd
|
0cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Belle Fourche River Near Elm Springs
|
17900cfs |
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.
Mitchell Dam