Esmay And Sandy #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Esmay and Sandy #1, located in Jones, South Dakota, is a privately owned dam regulated by the state's Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).


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Summary

Constructed in 1956, this earth dam stands 27 feet tall and spans 363 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-White River, this low hazard potential dam serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Esmay and Sandy #1 has not been rated for condition assessment but is deemed to have low hazard potential. While the dam has not been inspected recently, it is equipped with state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols. Despite its age, this dam continues to play a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in South Dakota, contributing to the overall sustainability of the region's water resources and climate resilience.

With a maximum discharge of 630 cubic feet per second, Esmay and Sandy #1 not only ensures water supply for various uses but also mitigates flood risks in the area. As climate change impacts continue to threaten water resources, the importance of well-maintained dams like Esmay and Sandy #1 cannot be overstated. By adhering to state regulations and implementing risk management measures, this dam serves as a critical asset in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

363

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-WHITE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
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.