Sterns No.2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Brown Dam #1 Brown Dam #2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sterns No.2 is a privately owned dam in Harding, South Dakota, located on the TR-Grand River.
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Summary
Built in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated in terms of its condition assessment, but it is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Despite not having a designated primary purpose, Sterns No.2 serves as a vital structure for water resource management in the region. It is equipped with a maximum discharge capacity of 630 cubic feet per second and is designed to handle normal storage levels of 45 acre-feet. The dam's location in the Omaha District underlines its significance in the larger context of water infrastructure in the area, highlighting the importance of its maintenance and regulatory oversight.
As a key component of the local water management system, Sterns No.2 plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and stability of the surrounding community. While it may not have significant associated structures or a detailed risk assessment, its presence and functionality contribute to the overall resilience of the region in the face of changing climate conditions. With its state-regulated status and commitment to inspection and enforcement protocols, Sterns No.2 stands as a testament to the importance of proactive dam management in safeguarding water resources and adapting to the challenges of a shifting climate.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
305 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GRAND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
56 |
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.
Sterns No.2