Gibbons No. 3 is a privately owned earth dam located in Brookings, South Dakota, along TR. DEER CREEK. Constructed in 2000 by the USFWS, this dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 45 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Gibbons No. 3 is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.

Despite not having a designated primary purpose, Gibbons No. 3 serves as an essential water resource management structure within the region. Its uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates indicate a simple design for managing water levels and potential overflow. The dam's location in a drainage area of 1 square mile highlights its importance in protecting the surrounding environment and community from flooding events and ensuring a stable water supply for various purposes.

With its strategic design and regulated maintenance, Gibbons No. 3 stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in South Dakota. Its presence along TR. DEER CREEK not only supports the local ecosystem but also showcases the collaborative efforts between private owners and state agencies in safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential risks associated with dam structures.