Astleford No. 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Astleford No.2 Bachelor No. 1
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Astleford No.
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Summary
1 is a privately owned dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, along the Tributary of White River. Constructed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a storage capacity of 17 acre-feet. While it serves primarily for irrigation purposes, it also contributes to flood control in the region with a maximum discharge rate of 120 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Astleford No. 1 is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Situated within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the area. With its strategic location and modest size, Astleford No. 1 showcases how private entities can contribute to sustainable water management practices while meeting regulatory standards.
While further details about the dam's associated structures, inspections, emergency action plans, and risk assessment measures are not currently available, Astleford No. 1 remains a key infrastructure asset in South Dakota. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of maintaining and upgrading dams like Astleford No. 1 to meet evolving environmental challenges becomes increasingly evident. With ongoing monitoring and proactive management, this dam stands as a testament to the vital role of water infrastructure in adapting to a changing climate landscape.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB-WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Astleford No. 1