Strain Ranch No. 2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hutchinson No. 5 Strain Ranch No. 1
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Strain Ranch No.
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Summary
2 is a privately owned dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, along the tributary of Cottonwood Creek. Built in 1963, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential, this dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it is state-regulated and subject to inspection, permitting, and enforcement by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Despite its relatively small size, Strain Ranch No. 2 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 96 cubic feet per second. It is designed to provide both flood control and irrigation water storage for the surrounding agricultural land. Although there are no associated structures or modifications to the dam over the years, its strategic location and functionality are essential for ensuring water availability and sustainability in the region.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and hydrological patterns, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Strain Ranch No. 2 are vital for adapting to these challenges. With its location in a state prone to extreme weather events, the regulatory oversight and regular inspections of this dam are crucial for ensuring its continued safety and effectiveness in managing water resources in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Strain Ranch No. 2