Calkins Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Osborne #1 Osborne Number 3
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Calkins Dam, located in Jones, South Dakota, is a private earth dam constructed in 2001 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
This dam on the TR BAD RIVER has a height of 19 feet and a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway width of 46 feet ensures a maximum discharge of 620 cubic feet per second.
The dam's hazard potential is rated as low, with a moderate risk assessment. It is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. With its primary purpose and condition assessment not rated, the dam continues to serve as a vital structure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Calkins Dam stands as a testament to the importance of effective dam management and the role dams play in mitigating risks and ensuring sustainable water supply.
Year Completed |
2001 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
Little White R Below White River Sd
|
141cfs |
Black Pipe Creek Nr Belvidere
|
2cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
White R Near Kadoka Sd
|
73cfs |
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.
Calkins Dam