Water Department

DANR 2023 Secretary's Award for Drinking Water Excellence

Water Division Superintendent 
Cory Percy

Water Division Staff
Steven Murphy - Class II Wastewater Collection and Water Distribution Operator
Troy Jassman - Water and Wastewater Maintenance Operator

City Water and Wastewater System
The Water Division strives to maintain the highest quality product and provide uninterrupted water service to the residents and visitors of the city. Staff strive to protect the health and the economic well being of the community as well as conserving the natural water resources of the Northern Hills. The City of Deadwood does not treat the water the citizens use. Drinking water is treated by the Lead-Deadwood Sanitary District and then distributed by the City. The water distribution system is operated and maintained by city staff. The Water Division also maintains the sanitary sewer collection system in the city. Again, this effluent is treated by the Lead-Deadwood Sanitary District. 

The city water system consists of over twenty-five miles of pipeline, four water storage locations, and eight water pressure reducing stations. The waste water collection system contains over twenty  miles of pipeline ranging in size from six to twenty-four inch. The entire system is gravity feed to the Lead-Deadwood Sanitary District Treatment Plant located in the southeast portion of Deadwood.

Awards
2002 – 2023 - Secretary's Award for Drinking Water Excellence by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Frequently asked questions

Why is my water bill so high? 
You may want to check your toilet or other appliances. Leaks are the main cause of running up water bills. If you do not find any leaks, contact the Water Division and they can review the historical records and determine if there is a problem with your reading. Staff can also determine if your meter is running properly.

Why is my water meter so noisy?
Water running through your meter, as well as the plastic chambers, may cause a “clinking sound.” The meter could be changed but there is no guarantee that will eliminate the noise.

Why is it important to conserve water?
Living in South Dakota water is a valuable commodity. The threat of drought conditions is always a week away. Even in a non-drought year, conserving water conserves financial resources and assists in keeping the overall operational costs at an affordable level.

Why do operators come to my door and request a sample from my tap?
South Dakota Drinking Water Regulations require the City to sample the drinking water at locations throughout the water system annually. Your cooperation helps us meet these requirements. To increase your comfort level, feel free to require them to show you valid city identification.