School Land Reservoir Report
Nearby: G.P. Joens F. Joens
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
School Land is a privately owned dam located in Dewey, South Dakota, along the TR MOREAU river.
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Summary
Built in 1939, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans 500 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 161 acre-feet, School Land serves multiple purposes and is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in May 1994.
Although School Land has not been deemed an urgent risk, its maintenance and upkeep are crucial for ensuring the safety of surrounding areas and water resources. With a normal storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 600 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a significant role in managing water flow and preventing potential flooding. The dam's location within the St. Paul District and under the jurisdiction of the state of South Dakota highlights its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts should closely monitor the condition of School Land and advocate for regular inspections and maintenance to uphold its structural integrity. With its historical significance dating back to the late 1930s and its continued role in water management along the TR MOREAU river, School Land represents a vital piece of infrastructure that requires ongoing attention and care to ensure the safety and well-being of the local community and surrounding ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
161 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Cheyenne R Near Plainview Sd
|
0cfs |
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.
School Land