Ralph Hedman Reservoir Report
Nearby: Neuharth Dam #2 Hayes
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ralph Hedman, a private earth dam located in Stanley, South Dakota, stands as a crucial water resource structure along the TRIB.
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Summary
PLUM CREEK tributary. Constructed in 1958 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam boasts a height of 27 feet and a length of 660 feet, providing a storage capacity of 102 acre-feet for the surrounding area. With a significant hazard potential, this dam is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Despite its age, Ralph Hedman remains in "Not Rated" condition, reflecting the need for ongoing assessment and maintenance to uphold its functionality and safety standards. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently unspecified, raising questions about preparedness in the event of a crisis. As a water resource and climate enthusiast, staying informed about the condition and management of dams like Ralph Hedman is essential for understanding their impact on local ecosystems and communities.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to advocate for the proper management and maintenance of essential structures like Ralph Hedman to mitigate potential risks and ensure their long-term sustainability. By monitoring regulatory agencies' oversight and the dam's condition assessment, stakeholders can play a role in promoting responsible stewardship of water resources in South Dakota. Engaging with local authorities and staying informed about emergency preparedness measures can help safeguard against the potential hazards posed by aging infrastructure like Ralph Hedman.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
660 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. PLUM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
102 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Ralph Hedman