Perry Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Perry Dam is a privately owned earth dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, along the tributary of White River.
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Summary
Completed in 1994, this dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 50 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of water resource management and flood control in the region.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Perry Dam is regulated and inspected by the state agency to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam poses minimal risk to the surrounding area. While it does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the dam has not undergone any recent modifications and remains in a stable condition.
Located within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Perry Dam plays a crucial role in water management and environmental conservation in the region. Its strategic placement along the river tributary helps to mitigate flooding risks and ensures a sustainable water supply for local communities. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Perry Dam to be a fascinating example of infrastructure designed to balance human needs with environmental preservation.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
40 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
Little White R Below White River Sd
|
141cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Little White R Near Rosebud Sd
|
96cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
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.
Perry Dam