Nix Number 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Nix Number 3, located in Jones, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1960 with a height of 28 feet and a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet.


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Summary

The dam, managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, serves the primary purpose of water resource management and is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Nix Number 3 plays a crucial role in controlling the flow of the TR-WHITERIVER and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Even though the dam has not been recently inspected or assessed for condition, it is equipped with state-of-the-art features such as spillways and outlet gates to mitigate risks and ensure safe operation. Despite its small size and limited capacity, Nix Number 3 remains a vital structure in the region's water infrastructure, providing essential water storage and flood control services. With its strategic location and effective design, the dam continues to support the local community and contribute to sustainable water resource management practices in South Dakota.

As a key component of the St. Paul District's water infrastructure, Nix Number 3 plays a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area and supporting agricultural activities in Jones, South Dakota. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight by the state authorities, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water management in the face of climate change and increasing water scarcity. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the value of structures like Nix Number 3 and advocate for their continued maintenance and preservation for future generations.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

285

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-WHITERIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.