Bob Houck No.3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Bob Houck No.3 is a local government-owned earth dam located in Potter, South Dakota, along the TR-LATIN BAY stream.


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Summary

Designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1985, this dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, this structure is regulated and inspected by the DENR, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Bob Houck No.3 serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, with a maximum discharge of 235 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway width of 50 feet. Despite not having a current condition assessment, this dam is considered to be in good standing and meets state permitting and inspection requirements. Its location in NWSE, 15-119-78 makes it a key component of the local water infrastructure.

With Dusty Johnson (R) as the representative for the area, Bob Houck No.3 plays a vital role in water management and flood control in the region. Its stone core and soil foundation contribute to its stability, while its primary purpose and associated structures remain unspecified. As a climate and water resource enthusiast, Bob Houck No.3 is an intriguing structure to study and monitor for its impact on the local ecosystem and water supply.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-LATIN BAY

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.