Oscar Rische Reservoir Report
Nearby: Olson Dam Standing Rock Tribe
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Oscar Rische is a private earth dam located in South Dakota, specifically in Corson County near the city of Wakpala.
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Summary
Built in 1970, this dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a length of 404 feet, with a storage capacity of 97 acre-feet. It serves the primary purpose of water resource management on TR-Oak Creek, with a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Oscar Rische is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam plays a crucial role in controlling the flow of water and ensuring the protection of downstream areas. With a maximum discharge capacity of 811 cubic feet per second, it contributes to the overall water resource management efforts in the region.
Although Oscar Rische has not been rated for its condition assessment, its low hazard potential and compliance with state regulations make it a vital structure for water resource management in the area. As a private entity, it plays a significant role in supporting the overall climate and water conservation efforts in South Dakota, highlighting the importance of sustainable infrastructure for a resilient and environmentally conscious future.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
404 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-OAK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
97 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Cedar Creek Nr Raleigh
|
20cfs |
Cannonball River Nr Raleigh
|
40cfs |
Beaver Creek Bl Linton
|
39cfs |
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.
Oscar Rische