Mayer Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Chmela Dam Beal Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mayer Dam, located in Buffalo, South Dakota along the TR Crow Creek, is a private dam that was completed in 2011.
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Summary
With a height of 19 feet and a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet, Mayer Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for water resource management in the region. The dam's primary purpose is not specified, but it is classified as an Earth dam with a soil foundation, and it features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet.
Despite being privately owned, Mayer Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for condition assessment, but it is considered to have a moderate risk level. While the dam does not have a comprehensive emergency action plan in place, it meets regulatory guidelines and has appropriate emergency contacts listed for potential incidents.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mayer Dam provides a fascinating case study in private dam management and the complexities of balancing water storage needs with environmental regulations and safety considerations. Its strategic location along TR Crow Creek and its modest size make it a valuable asset for the local community, highlighting the importance of effective dam infrastructure in sustainable water resource management in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
2011 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR CROW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
115 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
James R Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
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.
Mayer Dam