Ringer Wpa Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bien Dam Bien Dam No. 2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ringer Wpa, located in Marshall, South Dakota, is a Federal-owned earth dam completed in 1985 on the Ringer Slough.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 10 feet and with a length of 72 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 490 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the condition of Ringer Wpa is currently not rated, and it has not undergone recent inspections or assessments.
The dam serves primarily for water resource management, although its specific purposes are not explicitly stated in the available data. While Ringer Wpa does not fall under the jurisdiction of a state regulatory agency, it is overseen by the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With no designated emergency action plan or risk assessment measures in place, there are potential areas for improvement in the management and safety protocols of this structure, especially considering its age and the importance of proper maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ringer Wpa presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and management. With its location in a potentially vulnerable area like Marshall, South Dakota, there is a need to ensure that this earth dam is properly maintained and monitored for any potential risks or hazards. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of proactive measures such as regular inspections, emergency preparedness, and risk assessments becomes increasingly apparent in safeguarding structures like Ringer Wpa for the future.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
72 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
RINGER SLOUGH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wild Rice River Nr Rutland
|
21cfs |
Little Minnesota River Near Peever
|
27cfs |
James River At Nd-Sd State Line
|
194cfs |
Bois De Sioux River Near White Rock
|
60cfs |
Bear Creek Nr Oakes
|
5cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
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.
Ringer Wpa