Knippling Stockwater No.3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Knippling Stockwater No.3, located in Buffalo, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1958.
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Summary
This dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet. While the primary purpose of this dam is not specified, it serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 14 acre-feet.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Knippling Stockwater No.3 is state-regulated and subject to inspection, permitting, and enforcement by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. With a significant hazard potential and a condition assessment that is not rated, this dam plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. It is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the upkeep and maintenance of this structure to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the community.
Although specific details on its primary purpose and associated structures are not provided, Knippling Stockwater No.3 remains a critical infrastructure for water storage and management in South Dakota. As climate change continues to impact water resources, dams like these play a crucial role in mitigating risks associated with floods, droughts, and other extreme weather events. It is imperative for stakeholders and policymakers to prioritize the maintenance and regulation of such structures to safeguard water resources and adapt to changing climate conditions effectively.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
455 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
James R Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
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.
Koenig Wild Dev. Area #023