The Heppner Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
The Heppner Dam, located in Fall River, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1935 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a storage capacity of 560 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 420 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary of the Cheyenne River, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of 'Not Rated', The Heppner Dam is a key infrastructure for flood control and water supply in the area. Despite its age, the dam is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not currently rated, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to protect the surrounding communities and environment from potential risks.
The presence of The Heppner Dam underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. As climate enthusiasts and advocates for water conservation, it is essential to stay informed about the condition and regulatory oversight of crucial infrastructure like this dam to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks and providing reliable water supply for the region.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
1230 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF CHEYENNE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Nid Storage |
560 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
The Heppner Dam