Sonnenschien Number 3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stoeser Dam #3 Stoeser Dam #2
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Sonnenschien Number 3 is a privately owned dam located in Fort Pierre, South Dakota, on the tributary of Willow Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1972 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at 37 feet high and stretches for 345 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring that it undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to maintain its structural integrity.
The dam serves a vital role in water resource management in the region, providing irrigation and flood control benefits to the surrounding area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1138 cubic feet per second, Sonnenschien Number 3 plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of extreme weather events on the local ecosystem and community. Its presence highlights the importance of proper dam maintenance and regulatory oversight in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns.
As climate change continues to impact water resources worldwide, the significance of structures like Sonnenschien Number 3 in managing water availability and quality cannot be overstated. With its history of serving the community for nearly five decades, this dam stands as a testament to the enduring importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of a rapidly changing climate. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and advocating for the proper maintenance and regulation of dams like Sonnenschien Number 3 is essential in safeguarding our water security for future generations.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
345 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. WILLOW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Nid Storage |
40 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
37 |
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.
Sonnenschien Number 3