Martin Sander Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ben Clark Smaltz Bros.
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Martin Sander is a privately owned earth dam located on the TR Moreau River in Perkins, South Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1951 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at a hydraulic height of 14 feet and has a length of 500 feet. With a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet, Martin Sander serves as a vital water resource in the region, regulating flow and providing irrigation for agricultural lands.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Martin Sander is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring that it is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced for safety and compliance. While its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting against potential risks in the area. With its historical significance and ongoing operational importance, Martin Sander is a key component in the region's water management infrastructure.
As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Martin Sander represents a blend of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship. Situated within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam symbolizes the intersection of human intervention and natural ecosystems. With its modest storage capacity and low hazard potential, Martin Sander stands as a testament to the careful balance required in water resource management, serving as a reminder of the importance of sustainable practices in safeguarding our environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
500 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Martin Sander