John Tescher Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ernest Kolb G.M. Strand
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
John Tescher is a private dam located in Perkins, South Dakota, along the TR Moreau River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1951, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 35 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose and specific design details are not specified, but it is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Owned and operated by a private entity, John Tescher poses a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Although certain details such as outlet gates, spillway type, and inspection frequency are not provided, the dam is closely monitored by the state regulatory agency to ensure public safety and environmental protection. The St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is not involved in the ownership, funding, construction, or maintenance of this structure, highlighting its independent management and compliance with state regulations.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, John Tescher offers a fascinating case study in private dam ownership and state regulation. Situated in a scenic area along the TR Moreau River, this modest earth dam provides valuable water storage capacity for local purposes. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, ongoing state oversight and inspection ensure the safety and integrity of this important water management structure in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
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.
John Tescher