Gladys Feller Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kip Krull Dam #2 Kip Krull Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Gladys Feller, a privately owned dam located in Hughes, South Dakota, is a key structure managing the flow of the tributary South Chapelle Creek.
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Summary
Constructed in 1953 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans a length of 400 feet, providing a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Gladys Feller plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
While the dam is not federally owned or funded, it is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. Despite lacking a formal emergency action plan and inundation maps, Gladys Feller continues to operate effectively to mitigate flood risks and ensure water security for the surrounding area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1248 cubic feet per second, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for the local community.
As climate change impacts water resources and intensifies weather patterns, the importance of structures like Gladys Feller in South Dakota cannot be overstated. With its strategic location and design, this dam not only provides water storage and flood control but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for resilient infrastructure in the face of evolving climate challenges. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and supporting the maintenance and management of dams like Gladys Feller is essential for sustainable water management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. SOUTH CHAPELLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Gladys Feller