Ghost Hawk Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rosebud Indian Scout
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ghost Hawk is a captivating earth dam located in Soldier Creek, South Dakota, along the Little White River.
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Summary
Owned and managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, this recreational structure stands 42 feet tall and stretches 500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet. Completed in 1975, Ghost Hawk serves as a vital resource for water conservation and outdoor activities in the region.
Despite its age, Ghost Hawk has a high hazard potential and is classified as very high risk due to its condition assessment being unavailable. The dam is equipped with a controlled spillway and has an inspection frequency of five years, with the last inspection conducted in 2012. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in 2005, indicating the need for updated management measures to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems.
With its picturesque location and important role in water resource management, Ghost Hawk represents a blend of natural beauty and man-made infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, maintaining and enhancing the resilience of structures like Ghost Hawk will be crucial for ensuring sustainable water management practices and protecting the environment for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
500 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE WHITE RIVER -TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
160 |
Structural Height |
42 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
42 |
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.
Ghost Hawk