Harrison Veldon No.1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Brost Number 1 Brost Number 2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Harrison Veldon No.1 is a privately owned dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, along the tributary of the White River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 334 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 16 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," this structure is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Despite its modest size, Harrison Veldon No.1 plays a significant role in water resource management in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 303 cubic feet per second. The dam serves as a crucial component for flood control and water storage, supporting agricultural activities and local ecosystems. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, this dam is well-maintained and ensures the safety of its surrounding communities.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Harrison Veldon No.1 are essential for adapting to shifting hydrological patterns. By meeting state regulatory standards and maintaining a low hazard potential, this dam exemplifies responsible water infrastructure management. Its location within the St. Paul District underscores its importance within the larger network of water resource systems, highlighting the interconnected nature of climate resilience efforts.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
334 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
16 |
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.
Harrison Veldon No.1