Chris Mehloff Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Chris Mehloff is a private-owned dam located in South Dakota, specifically in Corson County.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Deep Bank Creek and regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Chris Mehloff has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment.

Despite its age, Chris Mehloff continues to be a vital structure for water resource management in the area, with a normal storage capacity of 146 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 288 cubic feet per second. While not currently rated for its condition, the dam has been maintained to meet state regulations for inspection, permitting, and enforcement. Its location in a rural area with low population density contributes to its low hazard potential, ensuring the safety of nearby communities in the event of any emergency.

As a part of the St. Paul District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, Chris Mehloff serves as an essential component for water resource management in the region. While its exact purposes and associated structures are not specified, the dam's presence on TR-Deep Bank Creek plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing storage for irrigation and other uses. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, Chris Mehloff stands as a testament to the enduring importance of infrastructure in sustaining water resources and adapting to climate challenges.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-DEEP BANK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

260

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.