Kelly Escott Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Talley Dam Escott Bros.
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Kelly Escott Dam, located in Perkins, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that plays a critical role in water resource management in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1996, the earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 133 acre-feet, providing essential flood control and water supply for the area. Situated on a tributary of the Moreau River, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring proper inspection, permitting, and enforcement measures are in place to maintain its integrity.
With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Kelly Escott Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for the community while posing minimal risk to surrounding areas. The dam's design and construction adhere to state regulations, with regular inspections and maintenance procedures in place to uphold its safety standards. In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) is expected to meet guidelines, although specific details on its preparation and revision dates are yet to be disclosed.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Kelly Escott Dam presents an intriguing case study of sustainable water management practices in a private ownership setting. Its strategic location, design features, and operational protocols demonstrate a commitment to efficient water storage and flood mitigation, contributing to the overall resilience of the region's water infrastructure. By staying informed about the dam's condition, regulatory oversight, and emergency response preparedness, stakeholders can ensure the continued effectiveness and safety of this essential water resource facility.
Year Completed |
1996 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
133 |
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.
Kelly Escott Dam