Malon Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Malon Dam, located in Meade, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 2001 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a storage capacity of 340 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 165 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Pine Creek, within the St. Paul District of South Dakota, and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Malon Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection, with the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and measures 125 feet in width, allows for a maximum discharge of 1770 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for Malon Dam is moderate, with a rating of 3, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality.
Malon Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and there is limited information available regarding its emergency action plan and risk management measures. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Malon Dam plays a critical role in water resource management and flood control efforts in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find Malon Dam to be an intriguing example of infrastructure that is both essential and subject to ongoing regulatory oversight and risk assessment.
Year Completed |
2001 |
Dam Length |
395 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
PINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
11 |
Nid Storage |
340 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
Malon Dam