Waletich Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tekakwitha Kriz Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Waletich Dam, located in South Dakota along the TR-Little Minnesota River, stands as a testament to innovative engineering and sustainable water resource management.
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Summary
Completed in 2000 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam boasts a height of 29 feet and a length of 540 feet, providing a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management in the region.
Owned and regulated by a private entity, Waletich Dam is subject to state oversight by DENR, ensuring that the dam meets all necessary safety and inspection requirements. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates, the dam has proven to be a reliable structure in managing the flow of the Little Minnesota River. The presence of Dusty Johnson (R) as the local congressional representative further underscores the importance of this dam in the region's water resource infrastructure.
With its strategic location and vital role in water resource management, Waletich Dam serves as a beacon of resilience and sustainability in the face of changing climate patterns. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the intricate details of Waletich Dam's design and operation offer valuable insights into the intersection of engineering, regulation, and environmental stewardship in ensuring the long-term viability of water resources in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE MINNESOTA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Waletich Dam