Rodney Winkler Dam No.1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Newell Howard Schmele Dam No.1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Rodney Winkler Dam No.1, located in Butte, South Dakota, stands as a crucial water management structure on Dry Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1920 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam reaches a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 730 feet, with a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is classified as having low hazard potential, with a condition assessment of "Not Rated".
The dam, regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, undergoes state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. With a maximum discharge capacity of 420 cubic feet per second, the dam serves to control water flow and mitigate potential flood risks in the area. Although not currently rated for condition, Rodney Winkler Dam No.1 remains a vital structure for water resource management in the region.
As a private-owned dam, Rodney Winkler Dam No.1 plays a crucial role in water conservation and flood control efforts. Situated in a scenic location with a history dating back to the early 20th century, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in South Dakota. With its low hazard potential and state regulation, the dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure for protecting the surrounding area from potential water-related risks.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
730 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
DRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Rodney Winkler Dam No.1
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