William Patterson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jordan Mundil Christ Orwick
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
William Patterson is a private dam located in Meade, South Dakota, with a low hazard potential and a height of 18 feet.
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Summary
Built in 1951, this earth dam on TR-Camp Creek serves as a vital water resource in the region, providing a storage capacity of 102 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 78 acre-feet. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam has state jurisdiction and is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, William Patterson plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1,872 cubic feet per second. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks specific risk assessment and emergency preparedness measures, it remains an essential infrastructure for water supply and flood control. With its location in a rural area and minimal associated structures, William Patterson stands as a testament to the importance of private dams in sustaining local water ecosystems.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, William Patterson offers a fascinating case study in the management of a private dam in South Dakota. With its historical significance, functional purpose, and regulatory oversight, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between human infrastructure and natural water systems. As discussions around water security and climate resilience continue to gain importance, understanding the role and impact of structures like William Patterson is essential for sustainable water management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CAMP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
102 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Horse Cr Above Vale Sd
|
13cfs |
Belle Fourche R Near Sturgis Sd
|
34cfs |
Whitewood Cr Above Vale Sd
|
16cfs |
Belle Fourche River Near Elm Springs
|
17900cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
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.
William Patterson