Strain Ranch No. 3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hight No. 1 Hutchinson No. 1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Mellette, South Dakota, Strain Ranch No.
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Summary
3 is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1966. With a height of 26 feet and a length of 450 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 39 acre-feet, making it a crucial water resource in the region. Situated on the tributary of the Little White River, the dam serves to regulate water flow and prevent flooding in the area.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Strain Ranch No. 3 is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. Although the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, its importance in water management for the surrounding area cannot be understated. With a maximum discharge capacity of 110 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in maintaining water supply and mitigating the impact of extreme weather events on the local ecosystem.
As a key component of the water infrastructure in the region, Strain Ranch No. 3 exemplifies the intersection of human intervention and natural resources management. With ongoing monitoring and oversight by state agencies, the dam continues to fulfill its purpose of water storage and flood control, contributing to the resilience of the local community in the face of changing climate patterns. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Strain Ranch No. 3 serves as a case study in sustainable water management practices and the importance of infrastructure maintenance in the face of environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. LITTLE WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
39 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
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. 3