Martha Munroe Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bruch Bros. State Land
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Martha Munroe, a private-owned dam located in Meade, South Dakota, stands as a crucial water resource structure regulated by the state's Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
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Summary
Built in 1951, this earth-type dam stands at 15 feet in height and stretches across 453 feet along Elm Creek, providing vital water storage of 55 acre-feet with a low hazard potential. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Martha Munroe plays a significant role in water management and conservation efforts in the region.
Despite its age, Martha Munroe remains in a condition that has not been formally rated, signaling the need for further assessment and potential upgrades to ensure its continued functionality and safety. While information regarding its inspection frequency, emergency action plans, and risk management measures is currently unavailable, the dam's importance in water storage and discharge regulation highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its reliability in the face of changing climate conditions and water resource demands.
As climate change increasingly impacts water resources and infrastructure, Martha Munroe's role in managing water flow and storage in Meade, South Dakota, becomes even more critical. With its low hazard potential and state-regulated status, this dam serves as an essential component of the region's water management system, emphasizing the importance of continued oversight and maintenance to secure its functionality for the future. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Martha Munroe stands as a key structure in the complex network of dams and reservoirs that play a vital role in sustaining water availability and quality in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
453 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ELM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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 |
Whitewood Cr Above Vale Sd
|
16cfs |
Elk Cr Near Elm Springs Sd
|
0cfs |
Elk Cr Nr Rapid City Sd
|
3cfs |
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.
Martha Munroe