Charles Heller Reservoir Report
Nearby: Snavely No. 2 Pauli Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Charles Heller is a privately owned earth dam located in Tripp, South Dakota, on the White River off-stream.
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Summary
Built in 1964 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this 26-foot tall structure serves multiple purposes, including water storage and flood control. With a normal storage capacity of 14 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 735 cubic feet per second, Charles Heller plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential dam with a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Charles Heller is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The dam is equipped with an emergency action plan, although details such as the last inspection date and the frequency of inspections are currently not available. In the event of an emergency, Dusty Johnson, the representative for the area, would be the point of contact for coordinating any necessary response efforts.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor the condition and management of structures like Charles Heller to ensure their continued effectiveness in safeguarding communities and ecosystems. Understanding the regulatory framework, emergency preparedness, and risk assessment associated with dams like Charles Heller can provide valuable insights into sustainable water resource management practices. By staying informed and engaged, we can contribute to the resilience and sustainability of our water infrastructure in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
253 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE RIVER OFF STREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
Little White R Below White River Sd
|
141cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
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.
Charles Heller