Grass Creek 727 (Nid) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carl Hansen Stockwater Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Grass Creek 727 (Nid) is a federal water resource located in South Dakota, specifically in the Missouri River area of Stanley.
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Summary
Built in 1938 by the USDA Forest Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet, with a length of 330 feet and a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Primarily used for fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond, this structure serves multiple purposes for the local ecosystem.
Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Grass Creek 727 (Nid) is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. While the condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated" and the last inspection took place in 2006, the dam is under the ownership, funding, design, construction, regulation, inspection, and operation of the Forest Service. With no emergency action plan in place and limited risk management measures identified, there is room for improvement in ensuring the safety and longevity of this essential water resource.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Grass Creek 727 (Nid) presents a fascinating case study of a historic dam that continues to play a vital role in the local landscape. With its unique location in the Dry Draw area and connections to the Missouri River, this structure offers opportunities for further research and conservation efforts to enhance its functionality and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
DRY DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Grass Creek 727 (Nid)