Calvin Andersen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wild Oak Golf Club Dam No. 1 Mitchell
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Calvin Andersen Dam, located in Davison, South Dakota, stands as a vital structure regulating the flow of the tributary James River.
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Summary
Built in 1968, this earth dam reaches a height of 27 feet and spans a length of 254 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 44 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Operated by a private entity, Calvin Andersen Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection, ensuring its structural integrity and adherence to safety standards. Despite being classified as low hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated, underscoring the need for ongoing monitoring and assessment. As part of the St. Paul District, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 660 cubic feet per second, contributing to flood control efforts in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Calvin Andersen Dam represents a key piece of infrastructure in South Dakota's water management system. Its role in controlling the flow of the James River tributary, combined with its state-regulated status and low hazard potential, highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the area.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
254 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. JAMES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Calvin Andersen Dam