R. Van Bockle Reservoir Report
Nearby: Edward & Manuel Hobus X. Ziltner
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
R.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Van Bockle is a privately owned dam located on the North Medicine Creek in Hyde, South Dakota. Built in 1940, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 600 feet, with a storage capacity of 638 acre-feet. Despite its relatively low hazard potential and its "Not Rated" condition assessment, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
Managed by a private owner, R. Van Bockle serves as a vital resource for water storage and flood control in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 9000 cubic feet per second. Although the dam's primary purpose is not specified, it plays a crucial role in the local water management system. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status, risk assessment, and management measures are currently not available, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the dam's continued functionality.
Situated within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, R. Van Bockle contributes to the overall water resource infrastructure in the area. With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, this dam stands as a testament to the engineering feats of the past and the ongoing efforts to manage water resources in a sustainable and responsible manner. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, R. Van Bockle represents a notable structure that plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and resilience of the local community in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH MEDICINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
638 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James R Near Redfield Sd
|
468cfs |
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
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.
R. Van Bockle