Walter D. Miller Dam #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pace Dam New Underwood
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Walter D.
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Summary
Miller Dam #1, located in Meade, South Dakota, is a privately owned Earth dam that was completed in 1963. This dam, standing at a height of 25 feet, serves as a critical structure for water resource management in the area. With a maximum storage capacity of 190 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 125 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in regulating the flow of water in the tributary of Elk Creek.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Walter D. Miller Dam #1 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Although specific details about its purposes and associated structures are not provided, the dam is subject to state regulation and inspection by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Additionally, the dam is equipped with a spillway type that facilitates a maximum discharge of 2100 cubic feet per second.
Overall, Walter D. Miller Dam #1 stands as a vital infrastructure for water management in South Dakota, contributing to flood control and water storage in the region. With its strategic location and design, the dam plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in Meade County. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Walter D. Miller Dam #1 become increasingly essential for mitigating risks and managing water resources effectively.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
860 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF ELK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
190 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Walter D. Miller Dam #1