Mud Butte Reservoir Report
Nearby: Holsti Dam Evenson North Irrigation
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Mud Butte is a privately owned earth dam located in Harding, South Dakota, with a height of 20 feet and a length of 550 feet.
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Summary
Built in 1948, this dam serves the primary purpose of water storage for the surrounding area, with a maximum storage capacity of 180 acre-feet. The dam is regulated and permitted by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring that it is regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety standards.
Situated along a tributary of the Little Missouri River, Mud Butte has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. Although it does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place, it is under the jurisdiction of the state and subject to regulatory oversight. The dam's location, at a latitude of 45.773333 and longitude of -103.998333, makes it an important feature in the local water resource management system, providing essential water storage and flood control capabilities.
Managed by a private owner, Mud Butte contributes to the overall water infrastructure of South Dakota, with a design that reflects its earth construction. While the dam has not undergone recent modifications or inspections, its low hazard potential and state-regulated status suggest that it continues to serve its intended purpose effectively. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mud Butte offers a glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural water systems, highlighting the importance of careful management and oversight in maintaining the safety and integrity of such structures.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB-LITTLE MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
180 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Mud Butte