Wicksville 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Elmer Olsen Owanka 1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Wicksville 1, a state-regulated dam in Pennington, South Dakota, stands as a vital water resource management structure along the Cheyenne River.
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Summary
Built in 1935, this earth dam reaches a height of 31 feet and has a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet, serving as a critical component in flood control and water supply for the region. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Wicksville 1 plays a key role in ensuring the safety and stability of the surrounding area.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Wicksville 1 undergoes regular inspections every three years to uphold its operational integrity and safeguard against potential risks. Despite its age, the dam remains in satisfactory condition, with emergency action plans and inundation maps in place to mitigate any unforeseen events. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, Wicksville 1 stands as a testament to the importance of resilient infrastructure in adapting to evolving environmental challenges.
As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates continue to monitor the impact of climate change on water systems, Wicksville 1 serves as a beacon of resilience and preparedness in the face of uncertainty. With Dusty Johnson (R) representing the area in Congress, the collaboration between state and federal agencies ensures that Wicksville 1 remains a crucial component in the sustainable management of water resources and the protection of communities downstream. By prioritizing regular inspections, emergency planning, and risk assessment, Wicksville 1 exemplifies the proactive approach needed to address the growing threats posed by a changing climate on water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
510 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CHEYENNERIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Nid Storage |
260 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Wicksville 1