Frank Hayes Reservoir Report
Nearby: Norman Nystrom Jensen Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Frank Hayes is a privately owned earth dam located in Hughes County, South Dakota, along the Dry Run Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1937, this dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Frank Hayes plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Frank Hayes is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspections, and enforcement. Despite its age, this dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, with a maximum discharge capacity of 832 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area benefits from its normal storage capacity of 15 acre-feet, contributing to water supply and flood control efforts.
With its historical significance and ongoing operational relevance, Frank Hayes represents a vital piece of infrastructure in the St. Paul District. As climate change impacts water resources and hydrological patterns, the importance of well-maintained dams like Frank Hayes becomes increasingly evident. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Frank Hayes to be a fascinating example of how human-made structures can adapt to and mitigate the challenges of a changing environment.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
DRY RUN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
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.
Frank Hayes