Will Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Will Dam, located in Brule, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1946 with a height of 25 feet and a length of 323 feet.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

It has a low hazard potential and its condition assessment is currently not rated. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 26 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 19 acre-feet. Despite being regulated and permitted by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, it has not been inspected or assessed recently, and emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) are not documented.

The dam, managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, is situated on the TR-MISSONot RatedI river or stream and falls under the jurisdiction of the state. While it has not been modified in recent years, it is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to be aware of its existence and potential impact in the event of unforeseen circumstances. With its close proximity to the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, understanding the condition and management of Will Dam is crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the area.

Given its historical significance and the lack of recent inspections or assessments, there is a need for increased attention and monitoring of Will Dam to prevent any potential risks or hazards. Climate change and variability could also pose challenges to its integrity and functionality, making it essential for stakeholders to stay informed and engaged in the management of this vital water resource infrastructure. As a site with state regulatory oversight but limited recent data, continued vigilance and proactive measures are necessary to preserve the safety and efficiency of Will Dam for the future.

Year Completed

1946

Dam Length

323

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-MISSONot RatedI

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.