Richard Waddell Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nelder Ebert No.3 James Petik No.1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Richard Waddell is a privately owned earth dam located in Bullhead, South Dakota, along the TR-FIRESTEEL CREEK.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1955, this dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 230 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 2400 cubic feet per second, it serves the purpose of water resource management in the area. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, the condition assessment of Richard Waddell is currently marked as "Not Rated". The dam has not undergone recent inspections or maintenance activities, and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. While the risk assessment and management measures for the dam are not specified in the data, it is crucial for stakeholders and authorities to prioritize the safety and maintenance of this vital water infrastructure. As a hub for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Richard Waddell serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
508 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-FIRESTEEL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
230 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Richard Waddell