Margery Houck Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: F. Genzler Bob Houck No.3
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Margery Houck Dam, located in Potter, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1998.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans a length of 200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet. Situated on TR. LAKE OAHE, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, ensuring proper permitting, inspection, and enforcement procedures are in place.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Margery Houck Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management within the region. Despite not having an official purpose listed, the dam serves to regulate the flow of water and control discharges, with an uncontrolled spillway designed to manage high water levels effectively. Although the condition assessment is not rated, the dam's risk management measures are in place to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
Operated without outlet gates, Margery Houck Dam stands as a testament to effective water infrastructure in South Dakota. The structure, although not owned by a federal agency, plays a significant role in the local water management system and contributes to maintaining a stable water supply for surrounding communities. As a vital component of the region's water infrastructure, the dam continues to operate with a focus on risk management and safety protocols to ensure its longevity and effectiveness for years to come.
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR. LAKE OAHE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
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.
Margery Houck Dam