Chmela Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ahrenstorff Dam Sd Noname 6
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Chmela Dam, located in Buffalo, South Dakota, is a private-owned earth dam that was completed in 1952 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
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Summary
This dam is vital for water resource management in the region, providing a maximum storage capacity of 88 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 43 acre-feet. With a dam height of 28 feet and a length of 468 feet, Chmela Dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply for the surrounding area.
Although the dam is rated as having a low hazard potential, its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." Despite this, the state of South Dakota regulates and inspects the dam regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. With a maximum discharge rate of 660 cubic feet per second, Chmela Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for managing water flow and mitigating potential risks during extreme weather events. As climate change continues to impact water resources, Chmela Dam remains a key component in safeguarding the local community and environment.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
468 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
James R Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
James R Near Mitchell Sd
|
659cfs |
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.
Chmela Dam