Summary
This Earth-type dam stands at 20 feet high and spans 750 feet along TR ELK CREEK. With a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet, the dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and has no outlet gates. While it is not currently rated for condition assessment, it is inspected by the state regulatory agency and meets state permitting and inspection requirements. The surrounding area is not densely populated, making the risk of inundation relatively low. Additionally, the dam is not operated by a federal agency and has no associated structures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Silbernagel Dam offers an intriguing case study in privately owned water infrastructure. Its construction, design, and regulatory oversight provide valuable insights into the management of water resources in South Dakota. As a low-hazard structure with a moderate risk assessment, the dam illustrates the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams to ensure the safety and security of surrounding communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR ELK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Silbernagel Dam