R.L. Cundy Dam No.1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Royal Mcknight Dam No.2 Mcleod Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
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Summary
Cundy Dam No.1, located in Butte, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1957 along Leech Creek. With a height of 21 feet and a storage capacity of 193 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. It is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets state standards for inspection, enforcement, and permitting.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, R.L. Cundy Dam No.1's condition has not been rated. The dam has a maximum discharge of 1500 cubic feet per second and serves as a vital structure in the region's water infrastructure. With its primary purpose and specific design details not specified, the dam stands as a testament to engineering achievements in the mid-20th century and continues to support the surrounding community's water needs.
As climate change impacts become more pronounced, the role of dams like R.L. Cundy Dam No.1 in managing water resources and mitigating risks will only grow in importance. With its location in a potentially flood-prone area, ensuring the safety and integrity of this structure will be crucial for safeguarding both the environment and local residents. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, monitoring the condition and management of dams like R.L. Cundy Dam No.1 provides valuable insights into the intersection of infrastructure, natural resources, and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
1030 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
LEECH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
193 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
R.L. Cundy Dam No.1
Belle Fourche Reservoir Near Belle Fourche Sd