Mayer Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Chmela Dam Beal Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mayer Dam, located in Buffalo, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 2011.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet. It is situated on TR Crow Creek and falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Mayer Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite being uncontrolled, the dam has a spillway width of 60 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 730 cubic feet per second. It serves the primary purpose of water storage and flood control for the surrounding area, with a normal storage level of 51 acre-feet. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement ensure its continued safe operation. The dam contributes to the overall water management infrastructure in the region, supported by the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is currently unspecified, highlighting the need for updated emergency contacts and preparedness measures. As a vital component of the local water management system, Mayer Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water security for the community. With its strategic location and design, the dam exemplifies the importance of proactive climate adaptation and water resource management in addressing the challenges of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
2011 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR CROW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
115 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, 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