Brooks Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: G & J Heck No.2 R. Clark No.1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Dewey, South Dakota, the Brooks Dam stands as a critical structure along TR Firesteel Creek, serving as a key component in water resource management in the area.
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Summary
Built in 2001 by the USDA NRCS, this private-owned earth dam stands at 23 feet in height and spans 321 feet in length, providing a maximum storage capacity of 63 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, ensuring its compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.
Despite its relatively low hazard potential, the Brooks Dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage, with a maximum discharge capacity of 540 cubic feet per second. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, 40 feet in width, allows for controlled release of water during peak flow events. While the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," it undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and overall safety. Additionally, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, highlighting the need for continued risk management measures and preparedness in the event of an emergency.
Representing a valuable asset in the region's water resource infrastructure, the Brooks Dam is a testament to effective collaboration between private owners and state regulatory agencies. With its strategic location and essential role in water management along TR Firesteel Creek, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical infrastructure to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the sustainable use of water resources in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
2001 |
Dam Length |
321 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR FIRESTEEL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Cedar Creek Nr Raleigh
|
20cfs |
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Cannonball River Nr Raleigh
|
40cfs |
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.
Brooks Dam