Hutchinson No. 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hutchinson No. 2 Hight No. 1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hutchinson No.
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Summary
1, located in Mellette, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1961 with a height of 29 feet and a length of 390 feet. The dam serves as a vital water resource structure, providing a storage capacity of 24 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 413 cubic feet per second. Situated on a tributary of the Little White River, this dam plays a crucial role in water management and regulation in the area.
Despite being categorized as a low hazard potential structure, Hutchinson No. 1 is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, and there is no available data on its emergency action plan preparedness or risk management measures. However, its presence underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring water infrastructure for climate resilience and sustainable water resource management in the region.
With its strategic location and role in water regulation, Hutchinson No. 1 stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in South Dakota. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable practices, understanding the significance of key structures like Hutchinson No. 1 is crucial for fostering resilience and preparedness in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. LITTLE WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
29 |
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. 1