Paul Young Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Paul Young is a private water structure located in Meade, South Dakota, with a low hazard potential and a not rated condition assessment.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 18 feet and was completed in 1954, providing a maximum storage capacity of 101 acre-feet. It is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
Situated on the TR-SULPHNot Rated CREEK within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Paul Young is overseen by private owners and falls under the jurisdiction of the state of South Dakota. The dam's purpose and associated structures are not specified, but it serves as a crucial component in managing water resources in the area. With a flood discharge capacity of 1470 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a vital role in flood control and water supply management.
Despite its age, Paul Young remains a key infrastructure for the region, demonstrating the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness. As a significant contributor to water resource management in the area, this dam serves as a vital tool for climate and water resource enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SULPHNot Rated CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
101 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Belle Fourche R Near Sturgis Sd
|
34cfs |
Belle Fourche River Near Elm Springs
|
17900cfs |
Horse Cr Above Vale Sd
|
13cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Elk Cr Near Elm Springs Sd
|
0cfs |
Whitewood Cr Above Vale Sd
|
16cfs |
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.
Paul Young