Walter Miller No.1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: C. Birkland F. Miller
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Walter Miller No.1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Ziebach, South Dakota, along the TR-CHEYENNE river.
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Summary
Built in 1961 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water storage for agricultural and recreational use in the surrounding area.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Walter Miller No.1 is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The dam has not been rated for its condition, but it is regularly monitored to ensure its safety and functionality. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1680 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources along the Cheyenne River and mitigating the risk of flooding in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of infrastructure like Walter Miller No.1 in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events. By understanding the design, purpose, and regulatory oversight of dams like this one, we can appreciate their role in sustainable water management and adaptation to a changing climate. Walter Miller No.1 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of private owners, government agencies, and designers in protecting water resources and enhancing resilience in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
70 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CHEYENNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Cheyenne R Near Plainview Sd
|
0cfs |
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
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.
Walter Miller No.1