Completed in 1981, this Earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and a normal storage of 100 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Tributary Pease Creek, and its primary purpose is to regulate water flow and provide irrigation and flood control for the surrounding area.
Owned and regulated by private entities, Merkwan Dam is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of 'Not Rated,' the dam plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the state. Despite not being under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam's strategic location and design make it a key component in the overall water infrastructure of the area.
As an essential structure for water resource management, climate enthusiasts and stakeholders can appreciate the role of Merkwan Dam in maintaining water security and sustainability in South Dakota. With its modest height, maximum storage capacity, and regulatory compliance, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring a reliable water supply for agricultural and community needs.
Wind
Humidity
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB.PEASE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
35 |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Ponca Creek At Verdel
|
35cfs |
Niobrara River Nr. Verdel
|
7020cfs |
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1290cfs |
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
Bazile Creek Near Niobrara
|
82cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Pease Creek Rec Area
|
||
North Wheeler State Rec Area
|
||
North Point - Lake Francis Case
|