Grady Wilson Jr. Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fairview Ranch Dam Wayne Kennedy
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Grady Wilson Jr.
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Summary
is a privately owned dam located in Perkins, South Dakota, along the tributary of Moreau River. Built in 1951, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. While the dam is primarily used for water resource management, it also serves as a regulatory structure under the supervision of the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Despite its low hazard potential and currently unrated condition assessment, Grady Wilson Jr. plays a crucial role in the local water infrastructure, providing flood control and water storage benefits to the surrounding area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 150 cubic feet per second, this dam ensures the safety and stability of the downstream areas during heavy rainfall events. Additionally, its presence is vital for maintaining the ecological balance of the region and supporting the overall water resource management efforts in South Dakota.
As a significant feature in the St. Paul District under the ownership of private entities, Grady Wilson Jr. remains a key structure in the state's water regulatory framework. With state-mandated inspections, permitting, and enforcement in place, this dam exemplifies the commitment to maintaining safe and reliable water resources for both human and environmental needs. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the critical role of dams like Grady Wilson Jr. is essential in safeguarding our water systems and preparing for the challenges posed by a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Grady Wilson Jr.