Carl Albright Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mercer Number 1 Goc Number 1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Carl Albright is a private-owned earth dam located in Hughes County, South Dakota, along the tributary of Medicine Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1956 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this 22-foot tall structure serves multiple purposes, including water storage of up to 50 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 625 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated, with no recent inspections or emergency action plans in place.
Situated within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Carl Albright plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Although the dam has not undergone any significant modifications since its construction, its regulatory oversight by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources ensures that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. With its close proximity to the city of NONE, this structure not only contributes to flood control and water supply but also highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure for climate resilience.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Carl Albright is essential for sustainable water management practices. By recognizing the role of private owners and federal agencies in maintaining and regulating these structures, we can work towards ensuring the safety and efficiency of our water infrastructure. With ongoing advancements in risk assessment and emergency preparedness, it is crucial to prioritize the upkeep and monitoring of dams like Carl Albright to mitigate potential hazards and adapt to changing environmental conditions for the benefit of communities and ecosystems alike.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
375 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. MEDICINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
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.
Carl Albright