Dykstra Number 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Dykstra Number 3 is a privately owned dam located in South Dakota, specifically in Jones County.


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Summary

Built in 1952, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and stretches 558 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-White River, this dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Dykstra Number 3 serves a primary purpose that is not specified in the available data. However, its low hazard potential and current condition assessment of "Not Rated" suggest that it poses minimal risk to surrounding areas. Despite lacking certain emergency preparedness measures, such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps, this dam continues to meet regulatory guidelines and operates under the oversight of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dykstra Number 3 offers a fascinating case study in the maintenance and regulation of private dams in the United States. Its strategic location on the TR-White River, along with its historical significance and engineering design, make it a valuable asset for studying the interplay between water management, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance. As concerns about climate change and water scarcity continue to grow, understanding the complexities of dam infrastructure like Dykstra Number 3 becomes increasingly essential for sustainable resource management.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

558

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-WHITE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

88

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.