Merkel Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mike Welder Jones
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Merkel is a privately owned dam located in Dewey, South Dakota, along the TR MOREAU river.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1941, Merkel stands at a height of 18 feet and spans 800 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement.
Despite its age, Merkel has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. The dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1600 cubic feet per second, Merkel serves as a vital structure for water resource management in the region.
Merkel plays a crucial role in regulating water flow along the TR MOREAU river, providing essential storage capacity for the surrounding area. While it may not pose a significant risk currently, ongoing monitoring and potential improvements to its safety measures could ensure the continued protection of communities downstream. As a key asset in South Dakota's water infrastructure, Merkel underscores the importance of responsible dam management in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
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 |
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.
Merkel