Katzer Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gutzman Shaeffer Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Katzer, located in Montrose, South Dakota, is a privately owned dam on the Vermillion River.
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Summary
Built in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and stretches 350 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 18 acre-feet, Katzer serves as a crucial water resource for the area, with a maximum discharge rate of 504 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Katzer is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, the dam's condition is currently rated as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further assessment. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place, it meets state jurisdiction requirements and is equipped to handle potential risks.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Katzer in maintaining water supply and managing flood risks. As a part of the St. Paul District, this dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation events. With its strategic location on the Vermillion River, Katzer stands as a testament to responsible water management in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
VERMILLION RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Katzer