Ted Olson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jordan Mundil William Patterson
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ted Olson is a privately owned earth dam located in Meade, South Dakota, with a low hazard potential and a height of 18 feet.
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Summary
Constructed in 1955, this dam serves as a water resource infrastructure for the region, providing a maximum storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 45 acre-feet. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 1500 cubic feet per second and is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ted Olson plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the area. Despite being not rated for its current condition, the dam is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state regulatory agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. With no associated structures and a focus on water resource management, Ted Olson stands as a significant asset for climate and water resource enthusiasts in South Dakota.
Dusty Johnson (R) represents the congressional district where Ted Olson is located, highlighting the importance of federal and state collaboration in maintaining and overseeing water infrastructure projects. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable practices, Ted Olson serves as a vital component in the region's water resource management system, contributing to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem and community.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
577 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SULPHNot Rated CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
59 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Belle Fourche R Near Sturgis Sd
|
34cfs |
Horse Cr Above Vale Sd
|
13cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Whitewood Cr Above Vale Sd
|
16cfs |
Belle Fourche River Near Elm Springs
|
17900cfs |
Whitewood Creek Near Whitewood Sd
|
7cfs |
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.
Ted Olson