Mickelson Memorial Marsh North Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mickelson Memorial Marsh North Dam, located in Hamlin, South Dakota, is a state-regulated structure designed to control the flow of water from a tributary of the Big Sioux River.
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Summary
Completed in 1994, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a storage capacity of 450 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 154 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment.
With a maximum discharge capacity of 120 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway type, Mickelson Memorial Marsh North Dam serves to protect the surrounding area from flooding events. The dam's moderate risk assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness. Despite not having an Emergency Action Plan prepared or updated, the dam's risk management measures will be crucial in mitigating potential hazards and safeguarding the local community and environment. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the strategic placement and purpose of this vital infrastructure in maintaining water quality and quantity in the region.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
755 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. BIG SIOUX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
450 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Mickelson Memorial Marsh North Dam
458th Avenue Hamlin County