M. Matthews Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

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Summary

Matthews is a privately owned dam located in Ziebach, South Dakota, along the TR MOREAU river. Built in 1941, this Earth-type structure stands at a height of 26 feet and stretches 750 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 390 acre-feet, M. Matthews has a maximum discharge rate of 6300 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment.

Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), M. Matthews is subject to state regulations for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While the dam has not been rated for its condition, it is regularly monitored by state agencies to ensure its safety and integrity. Situated within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, M. Matthews plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

As a key infrastructure in South Dakota, M. Matthews serves as a vital component in the local water management system. With its primary purpose and associated structures not specified, the dam continues to provide essential flood control and water storage capabilities for the surrounding area. Despite its age, M. Matthews remains a reliable asset in the state's efforts to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events and maintain a sustainable water supply for the community.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR MOREAU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

390

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.