Jack Freeman Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jack Freeman Dam Budahl
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Jack Freeman is a private earth dam located in Ziebach, South Dakota, along the TR CHEYENNE river, and managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
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Summary
Constructed in 1960, this dam stands at 25 feet in height and spans 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 315 acre-feet. While primarily used for water resource management, Jack Freeman also serves as a vital regulatory structure in the state, with enforcement, inspection, and permitting conducted by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Despite its age, Jack Freeman boasts a low hazard potential and has not been formally assessed for its condition. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status remains unreported, and no risk assessment or management measures have been documented. However, with a maximum discharge capability of 1500 cubic feet per second, Jack Freeman plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply for the region. Located in a remote area with limited infrastructure, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring water resources in rural communities.
As climate change continues to impact water availability and security, structures like Jack Freeman are essential for safeguarding against potential hazards and ensuring sustainable water management. With its historical significance and continued regulatory oversight, Jack Freeman stands as a reminder of the critical role that private dams play in balancing the needs of agriculture, infrastructure, and the environment in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR CHEYENNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
315 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cheyenne R Near Plainview Sd
|
0cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Belle Fourche River Near Elm Springs
|
17900cfs |
Elk Cr Near Elm Springs Sd
|
0cfs |
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
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.
Jack Freeman