Pitan Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Halligan #1 Bettcher Number 1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Pitan Dam in South Dakota stands as a vital water resource infrastructure, completed in 1982 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
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Summary
As a privately owned dam regulated by the state, it plays a crucial role in managing water flow along the tributaries of the White River. With a height of 36 feet and a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet, Pitan Dam contributes significantly to the local water supply and irrigation needs in Jones County.
Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Pitan Dam remains a key asset in the region's water management system. Situated in a strategic location within the St. Paul District, the dam ensures flood control and water retention capabilities for the surrounding area. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts can appreciate the engineering behind Pitan Dam and its role in sustaining the ecological balance of the watershed.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the significance of structures like Pitan Dam becomes even more pronounced. Keeping a close eye on its maintenance, inspection, and regulatory compliance is essential to ensure its continued effectiveness in water management. For those passionate about water conservation and climate resilience, Pitan Dam represents a tangible example of human ingenuity working in harmony with nature to address environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
353 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
36 |
Nid Storage |
81 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
36 |
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.
Pitan Dam