Karrels Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Karrels Dam, located in Jackson, South Dakota, stands as a testament to effective water resource management in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1995, this private-owned Earth dam spans 400 feet in length and reaches a height of 25 feet, with a storage capacity of 117 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary of Black Pipe Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and ensuring sustainable water supply for the surrounding area.

Managed and regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Karrels Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to uphold safety standards and mitigate potential hazards. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam serves as a reliable infrastructure for flood control and water storage. While the dam lacks certain features like spillways and outlet gates, its structural integrity and operational effectiveness underline its importance in water resource management.

Furthermore, Karrels Dam serves as a prime example of collaboration between private ownership and state regulatory agencies to ensure the efficient utilization of water resources while maintaining environmental sustainability. With its strategic location and design, the dam contributes to the overall resilience of the region's water infrastructure and underscores the importance of proactive measures in adapting to climate change impacts on water resources.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TRIB. BLACK PIPE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

117

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.