Howard J. Kunstle Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nagel Bros. Joe Mangin
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Howard J.
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Summary
Kunstle is a private-owned earth dam located in Potter, South Dakota, with a low hazard potential and a not rated condition assessment. Built in 1946, this dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a length of 415 feet, providing a storage capacity of 205 acre-feet. Despite its age, it is maintained and regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and functionality.
Situated in the St. Paul District and overseen by the DENR, Howard J. Kunstle serves as a vital water resource structure for the region. With a normal storage capacity of 134 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 780 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and storage in the area. While its primary purpose is not specified, its presence contributes to the overall water management infrastructure in South Dakota, supporting various water-related activities and ecosystems.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and functional importance of Howard J. Kunstle in maintaining water supply and regulating flow in the region. As a privately owned and state-regulated structure, it exemplifies the collaboration between private entities and government agencies in managing water resources effectively. With its low hazard potential and state-of-the-art regulatory measures in place, this dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and environmental stewardship in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1946 |
Dam Length |
415 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
205 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
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.
Howard J. Kunstle