Jones Eugene No.1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Jones Eugene No.1 is a privately owned dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, along the TR Little White River.
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Summary
Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a length of 380 feet, providing a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet. Managed and regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Jones Eugene No.1 is classified as having a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.
Despite its modest size and capacity, Jones Eugene No.1 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, especially during times of peak discharge when it can handle up to 240 cubic feet per second. The dam is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its safety and functionality. The Natural Resources Conservation Service was involved in the design of this dam, reflecting a collaborative effort between private owners and federal agencies to manage and maintain water resources in South Dakota.
As a significant feature in the local hydrological landscape, Jones Eugene No.1 stands as a testament to the intricate balance between human intervention and natural processes. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam continues to serve its purpose in water storage and flood control, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climates and growing water demands.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR LITTLE WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Jones Eugene No.1