Ted Molstad Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Norman Schillinstad A.W. Spiry
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ted Molstad Dam, located in Walworth, South Dakota, is a private-owned structure regulated by the state's Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
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Summary
Built in 1951 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and stretches over 400 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 2100 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the region.
Despite its low hazard potential, Ted Molstad Dam has not been rated in terms of condition assessment. The last inspection conducted on the dam was back in October 1979, indicating a need for a more recent evaluation of its structural integrity. While the dam has not undergone any significant modifications over the years, its primary purpose and associated structures remain unspecified. However, the dam's normal storage capacity of 70 acre-feet highlights its importance in water management and flood control within the area.
With its scenic location along the TR MISSONot RatedI river, Ted Molstad Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience efforts in South Dakota. As enthusiasts in these fields continue to monitor and assess the impact of climate change on water infrastructure, the significance of structures like Ted Molstad Dam in ensuring sustainable water supply and flood protection becomes increasingly evident.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
92 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Beaver Creek Bl Linton
|
39cfs |
Cedar Creek Nr Raleigh
|
20cfs |
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.
Ted Molstad Dam