Shirley Miller Reservoir Report
Nearby: Clarence Goff Robert Schuelke
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Shirley Miller is a privately-owned dam located in Meade, South Dakota, with a low hazard potential and a height of 18 feet.
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Summary
Built in 1953, this earth dam spans 400 feet and has a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 51 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Shirley Miller plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. It is situated on the TR-MOREAU river/stream within the Omaha District, and its primary purpose and design are focused on water storage and management. The dam has not undergone any significant modifications over the years and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment, with emergency action plans yet to be prepared or reviewed. Congressman Dusty Johnson represents the district where Shirley Miller is located, providing oversight and support for its continued operation and maintenance.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Shirley Miller represents a key infrastructure asset in South Dakota that contributes to water storage, flood control, and overall watershed management. With its historical significance dating back to 1953, the dam continues to provide essential functions in regulating water flow and supporting agricultural and environmental needs in the region. As a privately-owned facility with state regulation and oversight, Shirley Miller highlights the importance of collaboration between public and private entities in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MOREAU |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Horse Cr Above Vale Sd
|
13cfs |
Belle Fourche R Near Sturgis Sd
|
34cfs |
South Fork Grand R Near Cash Sd
|
17cfs |
Whitewood Cr Above Vale Sd
|
16cfs |
Belle Fourche River Near Elm Springs
|
17900cfs |
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.
Shirley Miller