R. Kinning Reservoir Report
Nearby: R. Berndt Brueschke Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
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Summary
Kinning is a privately owned dam located in South Dakota, specifically in Dewey County, along the TR MOREAU river. Built in 1942, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 400 feet, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. It is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential, the condition of R. Kinning has not been rated yet. The dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. While it meets state jurisdiction and regulatory requirements, there are no associated structures with the dam, and its last inspection date, inspection frequency, and other key operational details are unknown. It is notable that the dam falls under the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers but is not directly operated by them.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and condition of dams in South Dakota may find R. Kinning an intriguing case study. With its historical significance, low hazard potential, and state-regulated status, this dam presents an opportunity for further exploration into the intersection of private ownership, state oversight, and the need for comprehensive risk assessments and emergency preparedness measures in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource management challenges.
Year Completed |
1942 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Cheyenne R Near Plainview Sd
|
0cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
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.
R. Kinning