Kukuchka Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Otto Ericson Dam No.1 Delzer No.1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Kukuchka Dam, located in South Dakota along Antelope Creek, was completed in 1930 and stands at a height of 17 feet with a length of 574 feet.
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Summary
This Earth dam, primarily made of stone and supported by a soil foundation, serves multiple purposes including flood control and water storage. With a maximum storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and a normal storage of 88 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Owned privately, Kukuchka Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, ensuring regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement of safety measures. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1350 cubic feet per second. Although not currently rated for its condition, the dam's risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.
While the dam has not undergone recent modifications or assessments, its uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 100 feet, helps manage excess water flow during periods of heavy rainfall. With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, Kukuchka Dam continues to be a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the Butte County of South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
574 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
ANTELOPE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
180 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Kukuchka Dam