Hutchinson No. 4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hutchinson No.7 Hutchinson No. 3
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hutchinson No.
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Summary
4 is a privately owned dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, along a tributary of the Little White River. Completed in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a length of 360 feet, providing a storage capacity of 19 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 216 cubic feet per second, the dam serves a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Hutchinson No. 4 is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, contributing to flood control, irrigation, and water supply. Despite its low hazard potential, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the surrounding community and ecosystem.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Hutchinson No. 4 to be an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and management. Its location, design, and purpose highlight the importance of effective regulation and maintenance to mitigate risks and optimize the benefits provided by such structures. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the role of dams like Hutchinson No. 4 in adapting to and mitigating these changes is crucial for sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. LITTLE WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
19 |
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.
Hutchinson No. 4