M. Fisher Reservoir Report
Nearby: C. Mcgillvrey A. Heezen
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
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Summary
Fisher is a privately owned earth dam located in Hand County, South Dakota, along the James River. Completed in 1949, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, M. Fisher is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement.
With its primary purpose and associated structures unspecified, M. Fisher serves as a vital component in water resource management and flood control along the James River. Situated in an area represented by Congressman Dusty Johnson, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and protecting the surrounding environment. Although its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," M. Fisher remains an essential infrastructure in the region's water resource and climate resilience efforts.
As a key feature in the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, M. Fisher contributes to the overall water management strategy in South Dakota. While its emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment details are not provided, the dam's operational history and regulatory oversight demonstrate a commitment to maintaining its integrity and ensuring the safety of nearby communities. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find M. Fisher to be a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-JAMES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
James R Near Redfield Sd
|
468cfs |
James R Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
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.
M. Fisher