Standing Rock Tribe Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Standing Rock Tribe, also known as Kellers Dam, is a significant earth dam located in Wakpala, South Dakota, owned by the Tribal Government.


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Summary

Completed in 1934, the dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans a length of 370 feet, with a primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities. Situated on the TR-Oak Creek river, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 194 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 84 acre-feet.

Despite being a key recreational site, Standing Rock Tribe poses a significant hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition. It is not regulated or permitted by the state, raising concerns about its safety and maintenance. The dam's emergency action plan status, inspection frequency, and risk management measures are also unclear, highlighting the need for improved oversight and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and advocate for the proper management and maintenance of infrastructure like Standing Rock Tribe to safeguard water resources and mitigate climate-related risks. The involvement of tribal government, state regulatory agencies, and federal authorities is crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of dams like Standing Rock Tribe for future generations to enjoy and benefit from.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-OAK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

194

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.