Joe Wunder Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lenard Chapman Gary Larson Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Joe Wunder is a privately owned dam located in Perkins, South Dakota, along the TR Moreau River.
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Summary
Built in 1958, this earth dam stands at 23 feet in height and spans 270 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not currently rated for its condition, Joe Wunder is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Joe Wunder serves various purposes related to water resource management in the region. With a maximum discharge of 100 cubic feet per second and a normal storage capacity of 43 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply for the surrounding area. While specific details on the dam's condition assessment, emergency action plan, and risk management measures are not available, its presence and function contribute significantly to the local water resource infrastructure.
Located within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Joe Wunder is an essential component of the region's water management system. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of dams like Joe Wunder in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water availability for various uses becomes increasingly evident. Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate adaptation will find Joe Wunder a fascinating subject for further exploration and study.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Joe Wunder