Helsels Plum Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: The Heppner Dam Duerson Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Helsels Plum Creek Dam, located in Fall River, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that serves as a crucial water resource in the region.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1938, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary of the Cheyenne River, the dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and providing essential water for various purposes.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Helsels Plum Creek Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and effectiveness. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently labeled as "Not Rated," highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With a maximum discharge capacity of 2100 cubic feet per second, the dam contributes to flood control efforts and helps mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events in the area.
As a significant infrastructure asset in the region, Helsels Plum Creek Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location and design, the dam continues to support various water-related activities while adhering to state regulatory standards for safety and environmental protection. Maintaining the dam's integrity and functionality is essential for ensuring a sustainable water supply and effective flood mitigation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF CHEYENNE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Helsels Plum Creek Dam