Wells Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gruenig Dam Sladek Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Wells Dam, situated in Brule, South Dakota, is a state-regulated water resource structure designed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and completed in 1935.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet, with a hydraulic height matching that measurement. It boasts a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 300 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but it serves to moderate the flow of the TR-MISSONot RatedI river or stream.
Although the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, its risk assessment is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management. The spillway, measuring 60 feet in width, is of the uncontrolled type. While the last inspection occurred in 2010 and was rated as not assessed, the dam is subject to regular inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's location and distance from a designated city are unspecified, but its coordinates place it in close proximity to the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Wells Dam will find its historical significance and structural design intriguing. With its WPA roots and state regulatory oversight, the dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century infrastructure projects that continue to provide essential water management functions today. As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, understanding the risk and management measures for structures like Wells Dam becomes increasingly important for ensuring the resilience of our water systems.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
610 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
500 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
James R Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
James R Near Mitchell Sd
|
659cfs |
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.
Wells Dam
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