Word #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Word Iwan O.M. Number 3
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Word #1 is a private dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, with a fascinating history dating back to its completion in 1960.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This Earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 287 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. Situated on the TR Big White Offstream river, this dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential and current condition being unrated, Word #1 serves a crucial role in water resource management in the region. The dam's primary purpose and specific designations remain undisclosed, but it is clear that the Natural Resources Conservation Service played a significant role in its construction. With a maximum discharge capacity of 259 cubic feet per second, this dam is a key component in the local water infrastructure, providing essential flood control and water storage capabilities for the surrounding area. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Word #1 to be a noteworthy example of human-engineered structures intersecting with environmental management practices in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
287 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR BIG WHITE OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Word #1