Dry Creek Subimpoundment Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nelson Dam H.J. Kerner No.1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Dry Creek Subimpoundment, located in Charles Mix, South Dakota, is a state-regulated Earth dam completed in 1984 with a height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This subimpoundment on Dry Creek, part of the St. Paul District, serves a primary purpose that is not specified, but is designed to store water for various uses in the region. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently not rated, highlighting the need for further assessment and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Dry Creek Subimpoundment undergoes state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. The dam's location at 43.29945733 latitude and -98.99859586 longitude makes it a vital water resource in the area, providing storage for irrigation, recreation, and wildlife habitat. With a normal storage capacity of 175 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 200 cubic feet per second, this subimpoundment plays a crucial role in water management and climate resilience efforts in South Dakota.
As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Dry Creek Subimpoundment contributes to the overall water security and sustainability of the region. With its low hazard potential and state-regulated status, the dam represents a valuable resource for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the importance of sustainable water management practices in addressing the challenges of a changing climate. Continued monitoring and maintenance of this Earth dam will be essential to ensuring its long-term functionality and resilience in the face of evolving environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
DRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
350 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1650cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
Ponca Creek At Verdel
|
23cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Platte Creek State Rec Area
|
||
Snake Creek State Rec Area
|
||
Buryanek Rec Area
|
Dry Creek Subimpoundment