Thomas Number 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Thomas Number 3, located in Jones, South Dakota, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1959 with a primary purpose that remains unspecified.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This dam stands at 28 feet in height and stretches 405 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 49 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-WHITE RIVER and is under the jurisdiction of the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Despite being labeled as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated as of now.

The inspection history of Thomas Number 3 dates back to May 1990, with an inspection frequency of every three years. Although the dam has not been assessed for its condition, it is reassuring to know that the state agency responsible for its oversight conducts regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1050 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region and is a key component of South Dakota's water infrastructure.

Dusty Johnson (R) represents the area in Congress where Thomas Number 3 is located, raising awareness on the importance of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the role of structures like Thomas Number 3 becomes increasingly vital. With its strategic location and design, this dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal and state agencies in safeguarding water resources for current and future generations.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

405

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-WHITE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

49

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.