Paulson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bauske Dam Jacobs Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Paulson Dam, located in Moody County, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure designed by Ducks Unlimited and completed in 1997.
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Summary
Sitting on Mud Creek, this Earth-type dam stands 13 feet tall and stretches 563 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 151 acre-feet for the surrounding area. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, ensuring it meets all necessary safety standards.
Despite its relatively low hazard potential, Paulson Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1120 cubic feet per second, helping to prevent flooding and control water flow during periods of heavy rainfall. The dam's presence also supports the local ecosystem by providing a stable water supply for agricultural and environmental purposes.
The condition of Paulson Dam is currently not rated, but it is inspected regularly to ensure its continued functionality and safety. With its strategic location on Mud Creek and its role in water management, the dam serves as a vital asset to the community and a key component in maintaining the balance of water resources and climate resilience in the area.
Year Completed |
1997 |
Dam Length |
563 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
MUD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
151 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Paulson Dam