Emmerich Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Zell Lake Dam Gerkin Refuge No.1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Emmerich Dam, located in Faulk, South Dakota, is a private-owned structure designed by Ducks Unlimited and completed in 2007.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earthen dam spans 560 feet in length and stands at a height of 11 feet, with a storage capacity of 353 acre-feet. Situated on TR Snake Creek, the dam serves the purpose of water resource management and flood control in the region.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Emmerich Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is considered to be in a satisfactory condition. The spillway of the dam is uncontrolled with a width of 50 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 370 cubic feet per second in case of high water levels.
Despite not being rated for condition assessment, Emmerich Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding. As a key infrastructure in the St. Paul District, the dam contributes to the preservation of water resources and the mitigation of climate-related risks in the region.
Year Completed |
2007 |
Dam Length |
560 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
TR SNAKE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
353 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
James R Near Redfield Sd
|
468cfs |
James R Near Stratford Sd
|
409cfs |
Foot Creek Near Aberdeen
|
0cfs |
Elm R At Westport Sd
|
12cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
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.
Emmerich Dam