Sheriff (Nid) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sheriff Number 1 Richland (Nid)
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Sheriff (Nid) is a federal-owned dam located in Quinn, South Dakota, along the Dry Draw river.
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Summary
Built in 1938 by the USDA Forest Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and serves multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 620 cubic feet per second, Sheriff (Nid) plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Sheriff (Nid) has been identified as having a moderate risk level, requiring regular inspections and risk assessments. The dam, with a structural height of 28 feet and a length of 835 feet, is primarily managed by the Forest Service, with no state regulatory oversight. The last inspection date recorded was in September 2011, with an inspection frequency of 10 years, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Sheriff (Nid) serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community for water supply and wildlife conservation. With its strategic location and multi-purpose design, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in mitigating the impacts of changing environmental conditions on water availability and ecosystem health.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
835 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
DRY DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
144 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Sheriff (Nid)