A. Simons Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

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Summary

Simons, located in Meade, South Dakota, is a privately owned dam regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Built in 1956, this earth dam stands at 19 feet tall with a length of 790 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 114 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR CHEYENNE river and falls under the jurisdiction of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," A. Simons serves as a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in the region. Despite lacking certain details such as inspection frequency and emergency action plan status, the dam continues to play a vital role in flood control and water storage in the area. As a focal point for environmental conservation efforts, the Natural Resources Conservation Service is listed as the designer of this important structure.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find A. Simons to be a compelling case study in dam construction and management. Its presence on the TR CHEYENNE river highlights the intersection of human infrastructure with natural waterways, showcasing the importance of regulatory oversight and maintenance practices in ensuring the safety and efficacy of such essential structures. As discussions around climate change and water scarcity continue to evolve, A. Simons stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water resource management with environmental conservation in South Dakota.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

790

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR CHEYENNE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

114

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
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.