Simons Reservoir Report
Nearby: D. Gifford No.1 Blazek Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Simons is a privately owned dam located in Meade, South Dakota, along the tributary Cherry Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1997 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a storage capacity of 111 acre-feet. The dam serves the purpose of regulating water flow and mitigating flood risks in the area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1285 cubic feet per second.
Although Simons is categorized as a low hazard potential structure, it is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting processes to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 95 feet and is situated in a moderate risk area, with a drainage area of 1 square mile. With a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Simons continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1997 |
Dam Length |
517 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. CHERRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
111 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cheyenne R Near Plainview Sd
|
0cfs |
Belle Fourche River Near Elm Springs
|
17900cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Elk Cr Near Elm Springs Sd
|
0cfs |
Belle Fourche R Near Sturgis Sd
|
34cfs |
Cheyenne River Near Wasta
|
190cfs |
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.
Simons