S. Baxter No. 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fischbach A. Fischbach Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
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Summary
Baxter No. 1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Meade, South Dakota, along the TR-Cheyenne river. Built in 1962 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at 21 feet high and spans 560 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 2100 cubic feet per second, this low hazard potential dam serves the primary purpose of water resource management in the region.
Despite being state regulated and inspected, the condition assessment of S. Baxter No. 1 is currently labeled as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status, risk assessment, and management measures are also unspecified, highlighting the importance of ensuring adequate safety protocols are in place. As a critical infrastructure for water storage and flood control, it is essential to address any potential risks associated with the dam to protect both the environment and nearby communities.
With its significant role in managing water resources in South Dakota, S. Baxter No. 1 underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams to ensure their structural integrity and safety. As climate change continues to impact water availability and extreme weather events, proper management of dams like S. Baxter No. 1 is crucial for mitigating potential risks and safeguarding against potential disasters. By prioritizing regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness, stakeholders can work towards enhancing the resilience of water infrastructure in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
560 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CHEYENNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
92 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
S. Baxter No. 1