Ralph Holzwarth Reservoir Report
Nearby: Holzwarth Dam T. Holzwarth
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Ralph Holzwarth, a privately owned dam located in Potter, South Dakota, stands as a testament to engineering excellence since its completion in 1950.
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Summary
This Earth dam is crucial for water resource management in the region, with a height of 17 feet and a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet. Despite being ungraded in terms of condition assessment, the dam is considered to have low hazard potential, under the jurisdiction of the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
The dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow in the TR-MISSONot RatedI river or stream, ensuring controlled discharge of up to 360 cubic feet per second. With its primary purpose yet unspecified and lacking associated structures, Ralph Holzwarth stands as a solitary guardian of water resources in the area. While it may not have a detailed risk management plan or emergency action preparedness in place, its presence ensures a level of water security for the surrounding community.
As climate change continues to impact water resources worldwide, dams like Ralph Holzwarth become increasingly crucial for maintaining water supply and mitigating the effects of extreme weather events. The dam's location under the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlights its significance in the broader context of water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
84 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
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.
Ralph Holzwarth