Kaupp Hereford Ranch 2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Kaupp Hereford Ranch 2, located in Mills, Nebraska, is a privately owned dam in Gregory, South Dakota, along the Keya Paha River.
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Summary
Built in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a storage capacity of 87 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 67 acre-feet. Its low hazard potential and "Not Rated" condition assessment indicate that it is well-maintained and poses minimal risk to the surrounding area.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Kaupp Hereford Ranch 2 is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The Natural Resources Conservation Service was involved in its design, ensuring that it meets safety and environmental standards. Although it has not been assigned a Dam Safety Action Classification (DSAC) or undergone a risk assessment, its consistent compliance with regulations and oversight by state agencies suggest that it is a well-managed and safe structure.
This dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources along the Keya Paha River, providing flood protection, water storage, and potentially irrigation benefits to the surrounding area. With its strategic location and state-regulated operations, Kaupp Hereford Ranch 2 stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in South Dakota, serving as a valuable asset for both the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
KEYA PAHA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
87 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1650cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
191cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Niobrara River Near Sparks
|
969cfs |
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.
Kaupp Hereford Ranch 2