Hutchinson No.7 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hutchinson No. 4 Hutchinson No. 3
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hutchinson No.7 is a private dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, along the tributary of Little White River.
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Summary
Constructed in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 17 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Managed by private owners, Hutchinson No.7 plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the area. The dam's maximum discharge capacity is 206 cubic feet per second, providing protection to the surrounding community from potential flooding events. Despite not having a designated primary purpose, the dam's presence contributes to the overall water infrastructure network in South Dakota and serves as a key component in the state's water resource management strategy.
As an essential part of the St. Paul District, Hutchinson No.7 aligns with federal and state guidelines for dam safety and emergency preparedness. Although specific details about emergency action plans and risk assessments are not available, the dam's compliance with regulatory agencies and its low hazard potential suggest a commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Hutchinson No.7 as a vital piece of infrastructure that plays a significant role in protecting the local community and managing water resources effectively in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. LITTLE WHITE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.7