Evenson Irrigation Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Evenson North Irrigation Rolph #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Evenson Irrigation Dam, located in Harding, South Dakota, is a private earth dam built in 1955 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Standing at 30 feet high and 400 feet long, this dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a storage capacity of 288 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 4200 cubic feet per second. Despite being rated as having low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
The dam is situated on the tributary of Little Missouri River, within the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. While the condition assessment is not rated and there are no inspection dates provided, the dam is designed to withstand hydraulic pressures up to 30 feet. With Representative Dusty Johnson overseeing the congressional district, the Evenson Irrigation Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and agricultural sustainability in the region. Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate will find this structure to be a fascinating example of human intervention in managing and harnessing water for agricultural purposes.
As a privately owned and state-regulated infrastructure, the Evenson Irrigation Dam represents a blend of public oversight and private ownership in water resource management. Its history, design, and purpose offer insights into the intersection of agriculture, engineering, and environmental stewardship. Climate enthusiasts will appreciate the role of such dams in mitigating water scarcity and optimizing water use for sustainable agricultural practices in the challenging climate conditions of South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB-LITTLE MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
288 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lantis Spring Campground
|
||
Lantis Spring
|
||
Wickham Gulch Campground
|
Evenson Irrigation Dam