Earl Pullins Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rose Karnen Frank-Ruby
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Earl Pullins, a private dam located in Perkins, South Dakota, is a crucial water resource managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
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Summary
Built in 1952, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 300 feet in length, providing a maximum storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Earl Pullins plays a vital role in regulating the flow of the TR-MOREAU RIVER and ensuring water security in the region.
Despite its age, Earl Pullins remains a reliable structure with state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to guarantee its safety and functionality. The dam's normal storage capacity of 70 acre-feet serves as a critical water supply for the surrounding area, while its maximum discharge capacity of 150 cubic feet per second ensures effective flood control measures. Dusty Johnson (R) represents the area in Congress, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and monitoring Earl Pullins for the benefit of local communities and the environment.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Earl Pullins as a prime example of sustainable infrastructure management in South Dakota. As a privately owned dam with state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight from DENR, this structure highlights the collaboration between government agencies and private stakeholders to safeguard water resources and mitigate risks associated with dam operations. With its historical significance and functional design, Earl Pullins stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and investing in critical water infrastructure for the well-being of communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Earl Pullins