Newell Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Newell is a state-regulated earth dam located in South Dakota along Willow Creek, with a height of 28 feet and a length of 1250 feet.
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Summary
Constructed in 1958, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 2550 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1600 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Newell is inspected every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Newell is designed to control the flow of water and prevent flooding in the surrounding area. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 110 feet and no outlet gates. Despite being rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, Newell is considered to have a moderate risk level and is monitored closely for any potential risks or issues.
The dam's location in Butte County, South Dakota, makes it a vital water resource for the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1377 cubic feet per second. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Newell play a crucial role in managing water flow and ensuring the safety and security of local communities.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
1250 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
WILLOW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Nid Storage |
2550 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Newell