Nichols Number 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Nichols Number 1 is a private earth dam located in Jones, South Dakota, with a height of 25 feet and a length of 411 feet.
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Summary
Completed in 1959, this dam serves the primary purpose of water resource management, with a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 1071 cubic feet per second. Although the dam is not currently rated for its condition, it is classified as having a low hazard potential.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Nichols Number 1 is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with permits, inspections, and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan or inundation maps prepared, it is situated on the TR-Whiteriver and falls under the jurisdiction of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With its unique design and historical significance, Nichols Number 1 is a vital component of water resource infrastructure in the region, contributing to the overall climate resilience of the surrounding area.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
411 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WHITERIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Nichols Number 1