Olsen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Budahl T. Trent No.1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Olsen Dam, located in Ziebach, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1995 with a height of 18 feet and a length of 480 feet.
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Summary
The dam's primary purpose is to control the flow of the TRIB. ASH CREEK river, with a maximum discharge capacity of 810 cubic feet per second. The dam has a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 44 acre-feet.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential dam, Olsen Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam is not rated for its condition assessment, but emergency action plans and risk management measures are in place. The dam is located in a remote area with no associated structures or nearby city, emphasizing its importance in managing water resources and preserving the surrounding environment.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Olsen Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for controlling water flow and storage in the region. Its construction and regulation by state authorities highlight the importance of dam safety and environmental stewardship in water management practices. With its low hazard potential and secure design, Olsen Dam stands as a key component in ensuring water security and flood control in South Dakota's water infrastructure system.
Year Completed |
1995 |
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. ASH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Olsen Dam