Reese Williams Reservoir Report
Nearby: Brooks Dam Sd Noname 145
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Reese Williams is a private earth dam located in Haakon, South Dakota, along the TR-Cheyenne River.
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Summary
Built in 1955, this low-hazard dam stands at 18 feet tall and spans 1200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. It is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Reese Williams serves a crucial function in water resource management for the region. With a normal storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 3000 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a significant role in flood control and water supply management for the surrounding area. Although specific details on its emergency action plan and risk management measures are unavailable, its presence underscores the importance of proper dam maintenance and monitoring in the face of changing climate conditions.
Located within the jurisdiction of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Reese Williams represents a vital piece of infrastructure in the region's water resource and climate resilience efforts. With its historic significance and ongoing regulatory oversight by the state of South Dakota, this dam serves as a reminder of the interconnected challenges and opportunities in managing water resources in the face of a changing climate landscape. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and condition of structures like Reese Williams is crucial for fostering sustainable water management practices and building adaptive capacity for the future.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CHEYENNE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Reese Williams