Ernest Kolb Reservoir Report
Nearby: John Tescher G.M. Strand
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ernest Kolb is a privately owned dam located in Perkins, South Dakota, along the TR Moreau River.
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Summary
Built in 1949, this earth dam stands at 15 feet tall and spans 300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections, with a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated". Despite its age, Ernest Kolb remains a vital part of the local water resource infrastructure, providing water storage and flood control for the surrounding area.
Situated within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Ernest Kolb is maintained as a critical structure for managing water flow along the TR Moreau River. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, it meets state regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's primary purpose is to provide flood protection and water storage, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1000 cubic feet per second. As a key component of the local water management system, Ernest Kolb plays an essential role in safeguarding the community against potential flooding events and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources in the region.
Overall, Ernest Kolb represents a significant example of early water resource infrastructure in South Dakota, serving as a testament to the engineering ingenuity of its time. With its solid construction, regulated maintenance, and low hazard potential, the dam continues to fulfill its intended purpose of water storage and flood control along the TR Moreau River. As climate change impacts water resources, the upkeep and modernization of structures like Ernest Kolb are crucial in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water management systems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Ernest Kolb