Kerstiens Reservoir Report
Nearby: P. Stradinger No.2 Stradinger No.1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Kerstiens is a privately owned dam located in Dewey, South Dakota, along the TR MOREAU river.
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Summary
Constructed in 1935, the Earth-type dam stands at 15 feet high and spans 650 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. The dam is regulated and permitted by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Kerstiens plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 3600 cubic feet per second. The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but its presence serves as a vital component of the St. Paul District's water infrastructure. While the dam does not have a designated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or updated risk assessment, its operational history and state oversight contribute to its overall reliability and functionality for water management and climate resilience efforts in South Dakota.
As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kerstiens represents a historic and operational Earth-type dam in the region, with a significant storage capacity and regulatory oversight by the DENR. Its location along the TR MOREAU river and close proximity to St. Paul District highlight its importance in managing water flow and storage for the surrounding area. While specific details on its associated structures and purposes are limited, the dam's consistent inspections, enforcement measures, and low hazard potential underscore its role as a critical infrastructure element in South Dakota's water resource management and climate adaptation strategies.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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 |
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Cedar Creek Nr Raleigh
|
20cfs |
Cannonball River Nr Raleigh
|
40cfs |
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.
Kerstiens