Schumacher Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Al Reddin Taylor Brothers
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Schumacher Dam, located in Hughes County, South Dakota, is a private earth dam completed in 1992 with a height of 24 feet and a length of 209 feet.
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Summary
This dam has a maximum storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and serves the primary purpose of water resource management. Situated on a tributary of the Missouri River, Schumacher Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safe operation.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Schumacher Dam poses minimal risk to its surroundings. Despite not having designated emergency action plans or inundation maps prepared, the dam is equipped with features such as a spillway and outlet gates to manage water flow and prevent overtopping. While the dam has not been modified or inspected recently, its existence highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Schumacher Dam serves as a reminder of the vital role that dams play in mitigating floods, providing water supply, and supporting ecosystems. The dam's location on a tributary of the Missouri River underscores its significance in the broader water management system. With state regulation and oversight in place, Schumacher Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and government agencies in safeguarding water resources for current and future generations.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
209 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. MISSONot RatedI RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Schumacher Dam