Pettegrew Pond No.1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Fall River, South Dakota, Pettegrew Pond No.1 is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1968 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.


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Summary

This dam, with a height of 17 feet and a length of 850 feet, serves as a crucial water resource along the TR-Cheyenne river system, providing a maximum storage capacity of 114 acre-feet.

With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Pettegrew Pond No.1 stands as a reliable structure for water management in the region. The dam is 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. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a vital role in flood control and water storage, contributing to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem.

As an enthusiast of water resources and climate, Pettegrew Pond No.1 offers a fascinating case study of a well-maintained earth dam in a scenic South Dakota landscape. Its association with the TR-Cheyenne river system and low hazard potential make it a notable feature for those interested in water infrastructure and conservation efforts. With its history of construction by the NRCS and state regulation by DENR, this dam exemplifies the importance of effective management and maintenance practices for sustainable water resource utilization in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TR-CHEYENNE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

114

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.