Shaeffer Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: East Vermillion Katzer
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Shaeffer Dam, located in South Dakota on the Vermillion River, was completed in 2008 and is owned by a private entity.
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Summary
Designed by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge capacity of 655 cubic feet per second. With a spillway width of 60 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.
The primary purpose of Shaeffer Dam is not specified, but it serves as a crucial infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region. The dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The risk assessment for Shaeffer Dam is moderate, with a DSAC (Dam Safety Action Classification) assigned date not available, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures.
Overall, Shaeffer Dam plays a vital role in flood control, water storage, and irrigation for the local community in McCook, South Dakota. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, continued monitoring and maintenance of the dam are essential to ensure its long-term functionality and effectiveness in water resource management amidst changing climate conditions. With its strategic location on the Vermillion River, Shaeffer Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources.
Year Completed |
2008 |
Dam Length |
297 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR VERMILLION RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Shaeffer Dam