Johnny Johnson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Walder No.1 Benson Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Johnny Johnson Dam, located in Butte, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam that stands at a height of 17 feet and spans 670 feet in length.
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Summary
Completed in 2008, this dam serves as a crucial structure on the South Fork Moreau River-TR, providing storage capacity of 275 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 86 acre-feet. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type and low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating, signaling the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Johnny Johnson Dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspections, and enforcement. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to keep a close eye on any developments regarding its safety and maintenance. With its strategic location and importance in managing water resources in the region, Johnny Johnson Dam is a noteworthy structure that plays a significant role in South Dakota's infrastructure.
As a relatively new construction, Johnny Johnson Dam represents modern engineering techniques and design principles, with the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) credited as the designer of this vital water management structure. With its capacity to store and regulate water flow in the South Fork Moreau River-TR, the dam contributes to flood control, irrigation, and overall water resource management in the area. As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Johnny Johnson Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
2008 |
Dam Length |
670 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
South Fork Moreau River-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
275 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Johnny Johnson Dam