Dolezal No.5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dolezal No.4 Dolezal No. 2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Dolezal No.5 is a privately owned earth dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, with a primary purpose and design for water resource management.
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Summary
Completed in 1969, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 21 acre-feet. Situated on the tributary of the Little White River, this structure is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being rated as low risk with a hazard potential of "Low" and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures remain unclear. With a maximum discharge capacity of 475 cubic feet per second, it plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage for the surrounding area. Its location within the St. Paul District of South Dakota makes it an essential component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to water resource management efforts in the region.
While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain assessment details, its consistent operation and adherence to state regulations underscore the importance of monitoring and maintaining the structure. The presence of Dolezal No.5 serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to manage water resources effectively in South Dakota and highlights the critical role that privately owned dams play in supporting climate resilience and water security in the region.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. LITTLE WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Dolezal No.5