John Saucerman Number 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
John Saucerman Number 1 is a privately owned dam located in Stanley, South Dakota, along the tributary of Prairie Dog Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1948 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 1000 feet. With a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet, the dam serves the primary purpose of water resource management in the area.
Despite being rated as having low hazard potential and not yet assessed for overall condition, John Saucerman Number 1 is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The dam is equipped with state-mandated permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. While there are no associated structures or designated emergency action plans in place, the dam remains a crucial feature in the local water management infrastructure.
Located within the St. Paul District and under the jurisdiction of the state of South Dakota, John Saucerman Number 1 plays a vital role in the overall water resource management of the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the proper maintenance and regulation of dams like John Saucerman Number 1 are essential in securing water resources for the community and mitigating potential risks associated with extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. PRAIRIE DOG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
John Saucerman Number 1