Englebrecht Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Englebrecht Dam, located in Custer, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1945, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans a length of 780 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and is primarily used for regulating the flow of a tributary of the Cheyenne River.

Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Englebrecht Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and proper functioning. With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam serves as a key infrastructure for flood control and water supply in the region. Despite not being operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam remains an essential component of the local water management system.

While specific details about the dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not provided, Englebrecht Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates continue to monitor and assess the resilience of such structures, Englebrecht Dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between private owners and state agencies to safeguard critical water infrastructure for the benefit of both local communities and the environment.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

780

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF CHEYENNE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

63

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.