Hutchinson No. 5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Strain Ranch No. 2 Hutchinson No. 3
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hutchinson No.
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Summary
5 is a privately owned earth dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, along the tributary of the Little White River. Built in 1972, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge rate of 96 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential and the fact that it is not currently rated for its condition, Hutchinson No. 5 is still regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
With a primary purpose that is not specified, Hutchinson No. 5 serves as a vital structure for water resource management in the area. The dam's construction and operation are overseen by the private owner, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement all in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's location, dimensions, and hydraulic features make it a significant asset for managing water flow and storage in the region.
Although Hutchinson No. 5 may not have a designated emergency action plan or updated risk assessment at this time, its presence contributes to the overall water resource management efforts in South Dakota. As a key structure along the Little White River tributary, this dam plays a crucial role in providing water storage and flood control benefits to the surrounding community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Hutchinson No. 5 will be increasingly important for ensuring the sustainable management of water in the region.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
286 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. LITTLE WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
16 |
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.
Hutchinson No. 5