Gaylord Saucerman Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Gaylord Saucerman is a private dam located in Stanley, South Dakota, along the tributary of Prairie Dog Creek.
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Summary
Constructed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and stretches for 600 feet, providing a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Gaylord Saucerman is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Gaylord Saucerman serves as a vital water resource structure in the region. Despite lacking detailed information on its emergency action plan and risk management measures, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage for the surrounding area. Its location in a rural setting underscores the importance of responsibly managing and maintaining this infrastructure to safeguard both the environment and local communities.
As a part of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Gaylord Saucerman contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region. While specific details regarding its operation and any associated structures are limited, the dam's presence highlights the significance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of climate change and increasing water demands. Gaylord Saucerman stands as a testament to the collaboration between private owners, federal agencies, and state regulators in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of water infrastructure for the benefit of all stakeholders.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. PRAIRIE DOG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Gaylord Saucerman