Knippling Stockwater No.1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cable Dam 3 Knippling Stockwater No.4
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Knippling Stockwater No.1, located in Buffalo, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1965.
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Summary
With a height of 12 feet and a length of 956 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 28 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.
This significant dam serves as a vital resource for stockwater and agricultural purposes in the area, providing water for livestock and irrigation. Despite not having a designated primary purpose, Knippling Stockwater No.1 plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts, especially in times of drought and varying climate conditions. The dam's hazard potential is classified as significant, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to prevent any potential risks or failures.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Knippling Stockwater No.1 stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. With its strategic location in the Buffalo region and its role in supporting local agriculture, this dam represents a key element in ensuring water security and resilience for the community. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates continue to monitor and assess the dam's condition, it remains a critical asset in safeguarding the area's water supply for future generations.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
956 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Right Tailrace - COE
|
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Old Fort Thompson - COE
|
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Left Tailrace - Lake Sharpe
|
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North Shore -COE
|
Knippling Stockwater No.1