Missile 249 (Nid) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sd Noname 173 Virgil Horton 4
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Missile 249 (Nid), also known as Church Dam, is a captivating water resource structure located in Quinn, South Dakota.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1936 by the Forest Service, this Earth-type dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 24 feet and a length of 450 feet, Missile 249 has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and is situated on the Dry Draw river in Pennington County.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Missile 249 has not been rated for its condition as of yet. The dam, which is federally owned and operated, does not fall under state regulation and inspection. However, it is interesting to note that the last inspection was conducted in October 2006 with a recommended frequency of every 10 years. With a maximum discharge of 445 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway type, this dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region.
Overall, Missile 249 (Nid) is a historic water resource structure that not only serves practical purposes such as fire protection and stock watering but also contributes to the local ecosystem by providing a habitat for fish and wildlife. As an essential part of the Forest Service's operations, this dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and continues to be a valuable asset in managing water resources in South Dakota. With its unique design and functionality, Missile 249 remains a fascinating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
DRY DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Buffalo gap national grassland
|
||
Badlands Interior Campground
|
||
Cedar Pass - Badlands National Park
|
||
Cedar Pass Campground
|
Missile 249 (Nid)