Summary
This earth dam serves the primary purpose of water storage, with a capacity of 280 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 200 acre-feet. The dam, owned by a private entity, is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state authorities.
Despite being rated as having low hazard potential and not having a condition assessment, Chester Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. With a maximum discharge capacity of 840 cubic feet per second, the dam ensures flood control and water supply stability for the surrounding area. The dam's location on the MISSONot RatedI river contributes to its significance in water management efforts.
As a key infrastructure element in the region, Chester Dam's role in water resource management and climate resilience cannot be understated. With its history, technical specifications, and regulatory oversight, the dam represents a critical piece of the water infrastructure puzzle in South Dakota and underscores the importance of private entities in contributing to sustainable water resource management.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
630 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
280 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Beaver Creek Bl Linton
|
39cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Cannonball River At Breien
|
96cfs |
Long Lake Cr Below Long Lake Nr Moffit
|
95cfs |
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
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.
Chester Dam