Gerkin Refuge No.1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gerkin Refuge No.2 Gerkin Refuge No.3
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Gerkin Refuge No.1, located in Faulk, South Dakota, is a state-regulated dam built in 1936 by the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks department.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 600 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 144 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the TR Snake river, serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, providing flood control and water storage benefits to the region.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Gerkin Refuge No.1 is a crucial piece of infrastructure for managing water resources in the area. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, the dam is inspected regularly to ensure its continued safety and functionality. While it currently does not have an Emergency Action Plan or inundation maps prepared, the dam's regulatory compliance and enforcement by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources demonstrate the commitment to effective risk management and safety measures for this essential water resource. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gerkin Refuge No.1 serves as a unique case study in sustainable dam management and the intersection of water resource regulation and environmental conservation efforts.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR SNAKE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
144 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
James R Near Redfield Sd
|
468cfs |
James R Near Stratford Sd
|
409cfs |
Foot Creek Near Aberdeen
|
0cfs |
Elm R At Westport Sd
|
12cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
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.
Gerkin Refuge No.1