Gaylord Norman #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Gaylord Norman #1 is a privately owned dam located in Stanley, South Dakota, along the tributary of Foster Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1955 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a length of 350 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 31 acre-feet and a normal storage of 21 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition assessment, Gaylord Norman #1 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The dam has a maximum discharge of 113 cubic feet per second and has not undergone any modifications over the years. While emergency preparedness measures like an Emergency Action Plan are not currently in place, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for water management and flood control in the region.

With its strategic location and importance in water resource management, Gaylord Norman #1 provides valuable insights for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a privately owned structure with a significant history dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam showcases the collaboration between private owners and state regulatory agencies in ensuring the safety and functionality of critical water infrastructure. Its role in regulating water flow, storage, and potential flood mitigation underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and evaluation to sustainably manage water resources in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TRIB. FOSTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

31

Nid Storage

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.