Summary
The dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a length of 265 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 81 acre-feet. Situated on Timber Creek, the dam serves the purpose of water resource management and flood control within the region.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DENR), Stern Dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its relatively small drainage area of one square mile, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and mitigating potential risks to downstream areas. With a spillway width of 80 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 588 cubic feet per second, Stern Dam is equipped to handle excess water during heavy rainfall events.
As a key infrastructure in the St. Paul District, Stern Dam contributes to the overall water management strategy in the region by providing a reliable water source for various purposes. With its solid construction and state-regulated inspection and enforcement protocols in place, Stern Dam stands as a vital component in ensuring water resource sustainability and climate resilience in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
2005 |
Dam Length |
265 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR TIMBER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
81 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James R Near Stratford Sd
|
409cfs |
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
James R Near Redfield Sd
|
468cfs |
Big Sioux River Nr Florence Sd
|
5cfs |
Big Sioux R Near Watertown Sd
|
19cfs |
Big Sioux R At Watertown Sd
|
26cfs |
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.
Stern Dam