Gibbons No. 3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gibbons Dam Gibbons No. 4
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Gibbons No.
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Summary
3 is a privately owned earth dam located in Brookings, South Dakota, along TR. DEER CREEK. Constructed in 2000 by the USFWS, this dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 45 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Gibbons No. 3 is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.
Despite not having a designated primary purpose, Gibbons No. 3 serves as an essential water resource management structure within the region. Its uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates indicate a simple design for managing water levels and potential overflow. The dam's location in a drainage area of 1 square mile highlights its importance in protecting the surrounding environment and community from flooding events and ensuring a stable water supply for various purposes.
With its strategic design and regulated maintenance, Gibbons No. 3 stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in South Dakota. Its presence along TR. DEER CREEK not only supports the local ecosystem but also showcases the collaborative efforts between private owners and state agencies in safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential risks associated with dam structures.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR. DEER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
45 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Gibbons No. 3
Brookings County