R. Howie Reservoir Report
Nearby: I. Thompson M. Weyers
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
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Summary
Howie is a private dam located in Meade, South Dakota, along the TR Cheyenne river. Built in 1946, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 750 feet. With a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, the dam serves the primary purpose of water resource management and flood control in the region.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), R. Howie is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure its safe operation. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation to determine its structural integrity and maintenance needs.
As a vital infrastructure in the area, R. Howie plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding communities from flooding events and managing water resources effectively. With its location in a critical watershed area, continuous monitoring and maintenance of the dam are essential to safeguarding its functionality and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1946 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
TR CHEYENNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cheyenne R Near Plainview Sd
|
0cfs |
Belle Fourche River Near Elm Springs
|
17900cfs |
Elk Cr Near Elm Springs Sd
|
0cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Cheyenne River Near Wasta
|
190cfs |
Belle Fourche R Near Sturgis Sd
|
34cfs |
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. Howie