Dowling Number 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Magnuson Number 1 Styles Number 1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Dowling Number 1 is a private dam located in Jones, South Dakota, along the TR-BAD River.
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Summary
Built in 1952 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at 24 feet high and stretches 393 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. Despite being categorized with a low hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Situated in a picturesque rural setting, Dowling Number 1 serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, contributing to flood control, irrigation, and water supply functions. With a maximum discharge capacity of 630 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow within the region. Additionally, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures remain to be determined, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the details of Dowling Number 1 provide valuable insights into the management of dams within the state of South Dakota. With its rich history, engineering design, and functional purpose, this private dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal and state agencies in safeguarding water resources and infrastructure for the benefit of local communities. As the need for sustainable water management practices continues to grow, understanding the complexities of structures like Dowling Number 1 is essential in addressing the challenges of climate change and water security in the region.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
393 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
74 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Dowling Number 1