H.J. Kerner No.1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

H.J.


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Summary

Kerner No.1 is a privately owned dam located in Gregory, South Dakota, along the Whetstone Creek offstream. Built in 1968 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 167 feet, providing a storage capacity of 28 acre-feet. Despite being state regulated and inspected, its hazard potential is rated as low, with a condition assessment that is currently not rated.

This dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region, contributing to the overall environmental sustainability of the area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 202 cubic feet per second, it serves as a key infrastructure for maintaining water levels and supporting the local ecosystem. Although it has not been modified or assessed for its emergency action preparedness, its low hazard potential suggests a minimal risk to surrounding communities.

In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, H.J. Kerner No.1 serves as an interesting case study for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental impact. As a privately owned structure with state jurisdiction and oversight, it highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams for both safety and ecological preservation. Its location in South Dakota's Gregory County underscores the significance of such water management systems in sustaining the delicate balance of natural resources in the region.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

167

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

WHETSTONE CREEK OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.