Fordham Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Logan Dam Seefeldt Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Fordham Dam, located in Clark, South Dakota, is a state-regulated structure built in 1941 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 14 feet with a length of 500 feet, serves as a vital component in managing the flow of TRIB. FOSTER CREEK. With a maximum storage capacity of 950 acre-feet and a normal storage of 350 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water resource management in the region.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Fordham Dam is subject to regular state inspection, with the last assessment conducted in October 2019. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 38 feet and no outlet gates. Its risk assessment is moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the structure. With state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight from the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), Fordham Dam remains a significant asset for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates interested in sustainable infrastructure management.
In the realm of water resource and climate resilience, Fordham Dam stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of New Deal-era infrastructure projects. Managed by the state of South Dakota and located within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of flood control and water storage. As climate change intensifies the need for robust water management strategies, Fordham Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of investing in and maintaining critical infrastructure to safeguard communities and ecosystems against the impacts of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. FOSTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
950 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James R Near Redfield Sd
|
468cfs |
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
James R Near Stratford Sd
|
409cfs |
Big Sioux R At Watertown Sd
|
26cfs |
Big Sioux R Near Watertown Sd
|
19cfs |
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.
Fordham Dam