J. Reed Reservoir Report
Nearby: A. Oakland T. Sternard
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
J.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Reed is a private earth dam located in Meade, South Dakota, along the TR CHEYENNE river. Built in 1964, this dam stands at 24 feet in height and has a storage capacity of 288 acre-feet. With a significant hazard potential, J. Reed is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, J. Reed plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, this dam serves a vital purpose in mitigating the risk of flooding and ensuring water security for the surrounding area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 4000 cubic feet per second, J. Reed is a key infrastructure for maintaining water flow and protecting downstream communities.
As a water resource and climate enthusiast, J. Reed provides an intriguing case study for understanding the importance of dam infrastructure in managing water resources and mitigating natural disasters. With its strategic location and significant hazard potential, this private earth dam exemplifies the role of regulatory agencies in ensuring the safety and efficacy of critical water infrastructure. By exploring the design, construction, and maintenance of J. Reed, enthusiasts can gain valuable insights into the intersection of water management, climate resilience, and infrastructure development.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
770 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR CHEYENNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
288 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Cheyenne R Near Plainview Sd
|
0cfs |
Belle Fourche River Near Elm Springs
|
17900cfs |
Elk Cr Near Elm Springs Sd
|
0cfs |
Belle Fourche R Near Sturgis Sd
|
34cfs |
Cheyenne River Near Wasta
|
190cfs |
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.
J. Reed