Carr #5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Carr #5 is a privately owned dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, along a tributary of Pine Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 639 feet, providing a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet. Despite being classified as low hazard potential, the dam is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards.

Managed by a private owner, Carr #5 does not have associated structures or a designated primary purpose. The dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating that its structural integrity and maintenance status require further evaluation. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan and risk management measures have not been fully documented, suggesting a need for increased preparedness in the event of a potential hazard.

With a maximum discharge capacity of 993 cubic feet per second, Carr #5 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Although its risk assessment and emergency response protocols are still in development, the dam's presence underscores the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to safeguard against potential climate-related impacts on water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

639

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TRIB. PINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.