Hickman No.2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hickman No.2 is a privately owned dam located in Ziebach, South Dakota, along the TR Cheyenne river.


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Summary

Built in 1949, this earth dam stands at 32 feet in height and stretches 780 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 274 acre-feet. The dam is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), ensuring that it meets state standards for safety and maintenance.

Despite its low hazard potential, the condition of Hickman No.2 is currently marked as "Not Rated," and there is no recent assessment of its emergency action plan (EAP) or risk management measures. The dam is situated within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers and is not considered a high-risk structure. However, with a maximum discharge capacity of 3660 cubic feet per second, it remains crucial for stakeholders to monitor and maintain the integrity of Hickman No.2 to mitigate any potential risks to downstream communities and water resources in the area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Hickman No.2 an interesting case study in the management of small earth dams in rural areas. Its presence on the TR Cheyenne river contributes to the local water supply and flood control efforts, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of such structures. By staying informed and involved in the upkeep of dams like Hickman No.2, individuals can play a part in safeguarding water resources and mitigating the potential impact of extreme weather events on their communities.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

780

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR CHEYENNE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

32

Nid Storage

274

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.