Parmelee Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Parmelee is a federally owned recreational dam located in South Dakota, specifically in Todd County.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, completed in 1968, is managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and has a primary purpose of recreation. It stands at a structural height of 36 feet and stretches 1400 feet in length, holding a normal storage capacity of 656 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Cut Meat Creek and is under the regulatory oversight of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The dam at Parmelee poses a high hazard potential and has a very high risk assessment rating. Although the condition assessment is not available, the last inspection took place in 2012 with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The emergency action plan was last revised in 2005, and there is no information on whether it meets guidelines or if inundation maps have been prepared. Despite these uncertainties, Parmelee remains a popular spot for recreational activities and continues to be funded, designed, constructed, and operated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

With its picturesque location and recreational offerings, Parmelee serves as a vital water resource in the region. Managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, this earth dam presents both opportunities for leisure and potential risks associated with its high hazard potential. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and regulatory oversight of dams like Parmelee is crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of these important water structures.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

1400

River Or Stream

CUT MEAT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

656

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.