Rufus Gray Reservoir Report
Nearby: Charles Hyde Etzkorn
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Rufus Gray is a privately owned dam located in Hughes, South Dakota, along the South Chapelle Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1956 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a length of 450 feet. With a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet, Rufus Gray serves as a vital structure for water resource management in the area.
While its hazard potential is rated as low and its condition assessment remains unrated, Rufus Gray is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. This agency ensures that the dam meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. With a maximum discharge capacity of 624 cubic feet per second, Rufus Gray plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management in the region.
Dusty Johnson (R) represents Rufus Gray's congressional district, and the dam falls under the oversight of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Despite not having an Emergency Action Plan in place or a designated risk assessment, Rufus Gray continues to support the community with its water management capabilities and low-risk profile. As a key structure in the area, Rufus Gray stands as a testament to the importance of proper dam regulation and maintenance for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH CHAPELLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
67 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
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.
Rufus Gray