Okaton Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Arp Number 1 Roghair Number 1
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Okaton Dam, located in Jones County, South Dakota, stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and water management efforts.
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Summary
Completed in 1930, this earth dam stretches 600 feet in length and reaches a height of 22 feet, providing essential storage for up to 320 acre-feet of water from the tributary Dry Creek. While its primary purpose is unspecified, the dam's low hazard potential and state-regulated status affirm its role in mitigating flooding and ensuring water availability for local communities.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Okaton Dam undergoes regular inspections to maintain its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam's emergency action plan readiness and risk management measures are continuously monitored to ensure public safety and environmental protection. With a maximum discharge capacity of 2900 cubic feet per second, this vital water resource infrastructure plays a crucial role in sustaining the region's water supply and contributing to climate resilience efforts.
As climate change impacts continue to influence water resource management strategies, Okaton Dam remains a vital asset in safeguarding against potential risks and emergencies. With its strategic location and historical significance, this earth dam serves as a beacon of resilience and adaptive capacity in the face of evolving climate patterns. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, recognizing the importance of structures like Okaton Dam in ensuring sustainable water management practices is essential for building a more resilient and secure future for our communities.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. DRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
320 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Okaton Dam