R. Clark No.3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Dewey, South Dakota, the R.


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Summary

Clark No.3 dam stands as a testament to engineering prowess, completed in 1948 with a primary purpose that remains unspecified. This earth-type dam boasts a height of 11 feet and a length of 620 feet, providing a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet. Situated on the TR GRAND river, this privately-owned structure falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the DENR, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement measures to maintain its integrity.

Despite its low hazard potential and "Not Rated" condition assessment, the R. Clark No.3 dam remains a crucial component of the local water resource management system. With a maximum discharge capacity of 3050 cubic feet per second, this dam serves as a vital tool in flood control and water storage for the surrounding area. Its strategic location and functional design make it a key player in the sustainable utilization of water resources in the region.

As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like the R. Clark No.3 dam play a vital role in mitigating risks and ensuring water security for communities in South Dakota. With state-mandated permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols in place, this dam stands as a reliable guardian of the local ecosystem and a testament to the importance of proactive water resource management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TR GRAND

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

65

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.