Mikkelson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ogren Dam Ogren Dam No. 2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mikkelson Dam, located in Marshall, South Dakota along the TR.
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Summary
James River, was completed in 2009 by KONECHNE ENG. The dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 47 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam serves as a vital structure for water resource management and flood control in the area.
Owned privately, Mikkelson Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement. Its spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 40 feet, and it has no outlet gates. The dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the TR. James River and has a maximum discharge capacity of 540 cubic feet per second.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mikkelson Dam serves as an intriguing example of how private entities can contribute to effective water management and flood control measures. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam highlights the importance of proper regulation and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of such vital infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
2009 |
Dam Length |
385 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR. JAMES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
104 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
Wild Rice River Nr Rutland
|
21cfs |
James River At Nd-Sd State Line
|
194cfs |
Elm R At Westport Sd
|
12cfs |
Big Sioux River Nr Florence Sd
|
5cfs |
Maple R At Nd-Sd State Line
|
5cfs |
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.
Mikkelson Dam