Cortney Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bockert Sandoz Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Cortney Creek Dam, located in Fall River, South Dakota, is a federal-owned structure designed by Ducks Unlimited with a height of 20 feet and a length of 766 feet.
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Summary
Completed in 1999, the dam serves the primary purpose of water resource management for the SE Hay Canyon. With a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 555 cubic feet per second, Cortney Creek Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the area.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Cortney Creek Dam has not been rated for its condition. The dam's spillway, an uncontrolled type with a width of 50 feet, serves as a safety feature, although no outlet gates are present. The dam has undergone state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, demonstrating a commitment to its proper maintenance and operation.
Cortney Creek Dam's location and design make it an essential infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate. As part of the Omaha District, the dam's impact on the local ecosystem and water management practices in South Dakota presents a fascinating case for further exploration and research in the field of water resources and climate change adaptation.
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
766 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
SE HAY CANYON |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
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.
Cortney Creek Dam