Carpenter Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Staum Fordham Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Carpenter Dam, located in Clark, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam on TR Shue Creek.
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Summary
Built by Konechne Eng., this dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 106 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Carpenter Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing water storage for the surrounding area.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Carpenter Dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 720 cubic feet per second. Although the dam's condition is currently not rated, regular inspections and enforcement by state regulatory agencies ensure that the structure remains safe and operational. With a drainage area of 10 square miles, Carpenter Dam serves as a vital resource for water management in the region.
While Carpenter Dam does not have a designated primary purpose, its presence significantly contributes to flood control, irrigation, and water supply management in the area. With its strategic location and design, this earth dam continues to play a crucial role in protecting the community from potential water-related hazards and ensuring a sustainable water supply for the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts are drawn to Carpenter Dam for its engineering marvel and environmental impact on the local ecosystem.
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR SHUE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
106 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
James R Near Redfield Sd
|
468cfs |
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
Big Sioux R Near Castlewood Sd
|
68cfs |
Big Sioux R At Watertown Sd
|
26cfs |
Big Sioux R Near Watertown Sd
|
19cfs |
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.
Carpenter Dam