Mark Fisher Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Mark Fisher Dam, located on the TR Moreau River in Perkins, South Dakota, stands as a testament to water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Completed in 1957, this private Earth dam with a height of 21 feet and a length of 506 feet serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water storage. Operated by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 92 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 44 acre-feet.

Despite its importance in protecting local communities from flooding, the Mark Fisher Dam is facing challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which has been rated as poor. With a high hazard potential, the dam requires regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of downstream areas. The spillway, with a width of 150 feet, is uncontrolled, indicating the need for continued monitoring and management to mitigate risks.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the Mark Fisher Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for managing water flow and protecting communities in the region. With a risk assessment rating of moderate, stakeholders are urged to prioritize the maintenance and upkeep of the dam to ensure its resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. The involvement of regulatory agencies and the implementation of risk management measures are essential for safeguarding the dam's functionality and the well-being of the surrounding areas.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

506

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR MOREAU RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

92

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.