D. Nuzum Reservoir Report
Nearby: M. Ogrady C. Nuzum No.1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Meade, South Dakota, the D.
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Summary
Nuzum dam stands as a testament to water resource management and climate resilience. Built in 1954 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam spans 475 feet in length and reaches a height of 24 feet, providing a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. Situated on the TR CHEYENNE river, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state standards.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and being in "Not Rated" condition, the D. Nuzum dam plays a critical role in flood control and water supply for the surrounding area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 2000 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a protective barrier during heavy rainfall events. While lacking specific risk assessment and emergency action plan details, the dam's presence and functionality demonstrate a commitment to sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
As a private structure owned and operated by an individual or entity, the D. Nuzum dam represents a unique blend of public and private cooperation in water resource management. With state oversight and regulation, as well as historical significance dating back to its construction over half a century ago, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of infrastructure resilience in the face of climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
475 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR CHEYENNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
D. Nuzum