Fortune Dam, located in Pennington, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1974, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 135 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 70 acre-feet. Situated on the tributary of the South Fork Bad River, Fortune Dam helps regulate water flow, providing essential water supply for various purposes in the area.
Maintained by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Fortune Dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential, although its condition assessment is currently not rated. Despite this, the dam is subject to regular state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. With a maximum discharge capacity of 945 cubic feet per second, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in South Dakota, contributing to flood control and water supply sustainability in the region.
With its strategic location and function, Fortune Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource infrastructure in mitigating climate-related risks and ensuring water security. As a key component of the local water management system, this dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against flooding events and ensuring a reliable water supply for various stakeholders. Through ongoing state oversight and maintenance efforts, Fortune Dam continues to uphold its critical role in supporting the water needs of Pennington County and the surrounding areas, highlighting the significance of sustainable water resource management in enhancing climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. S. FORK BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
135 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |