Eklund #4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Eklund #3 Eckland A.W. No.1
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Eklund #4 is a privately owned dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, along the tributary of Oak Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1950, this earthen dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet. Despite being regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), this low-hazard dam is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment.
With a maximum discharge of 768 cubic feet per second, Eklund #4 serves as a crucial structure for water resource management in the area. Its primary purpose and specific functions are not explicitly defined, but its presence highlights the importance of maintaining infrastructure for water supply and flood control. While the dam has not undergone recent inspections or assessments, its low hazard potential suggests a relatively low risk for downstream communities.
The dam's location within the St. Paul District underscores its significance in the local water management system. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure resilience, ongoing monitoring and maintenance of dams like Eklund #4 will be essential to ensure the safety and security of surrounding communities and the environment.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
645 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB OAK CREEK OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
94 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Eklund #4