Anderson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Anderson Dam, located in Hamlin, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 2000.
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Summary
With a height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 153 acre-feet, this dam on the TR-DRY LAKE river was constructed for multiple purposes and is primarily regulated by the state agency DENR. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, making it an important structure for water resource management in the region.
Managed by the St. Paul District of the USACE, Anderson Dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge of 250 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, the dam is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state regulatory agency, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining its integrity and safety. With Dusty Johnson (R) as the congressional representative for the area, Anderson Dam plays a crucial role in water storage and flood control efforts in South Dakota.
As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Anderson Dam contributes to the overall water management strategy in the region. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks a current condition assessment, its construction and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflect a commitment to sustainable water resource practices. With a normal storage capacity of 17 acre-feet and a history dating back to the turn of the millennium, Anderson Dam remains a vital resource for water supply and climate resilience in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
385 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-DRY LAKE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
153 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Anderson Dam
Northwest Lake Drive 116, Hamlin County