Goebel Ranch Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Perch Lake Dam Rosette Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in McPherson, South Dakota, the Goebel Ranch Dam serves as a vital structure for water resource management in the area.
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Summary
Built in 2004 by Ducks Unlimited, this private-owned earth dam stands at 12 feet high and spans 497 feet in length. The dam has a storage capacity of 230 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1350 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial asset for flood control and water supply in the region.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the Goebel Ranch Dam is well-maintained and regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has not been assessed for condition as of yet. Despite its remote location, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events and ensuring a stable water supply for residents and wildlife alike.
Overall, the Goebel Ranch Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in South Dakota. As a key infrastructure project designed to mitigate flood risks and ensure water availability, this earth dam serves as a valuable asset for the local community and underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
2004 |
Dam Length |
497 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Preacher Run Creek-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
230 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Foot Creek Near Aberdeen
|
0cfs |
Elm R At Westport Sd
|
12cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
Maple R At Nd-Sd State Line
|
5cfs |
James R Near Stratford Sd
|
409cfs |
James River At Nd-Sd State Line
|
194cfs |
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.
Goebel Ranch Dam