Stoeser Dam #3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stoeser Dam #2 Bob Stoeser Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Stoeser Dam #3, located in Stanley, South Dakota, is a privately-owned earth dam completed in 1976 on a tributary of Willow Creek.
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Summary
It stands at a height of 20 feet with a maximum storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including flood control and water supply, with a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite the lack of recent inspections, it is regulated, permitted, and inspected by the state of South Dakota. The dam's location in a low populated area and its moderate risk assessment hint at a reliable structure with the potential for future enhancements to its emergency action plan and risk management measures.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Stoeser Dam #3 will find a unique earth structure that plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the 1970s, the dam continues to provide essential services while maintaining a relatively low hazard potential. Future updates and improvements to the dam's emergency preparedness and risk management strategies could further enhance its resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water resource challenges.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. WILLOW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Stoeser Dam #3