Herman #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Herman #2 is a privately owned dam located in Fort Pierre, South Dakota along the TR-Bad River.


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Summary

Built in 1971, this earth dam stands at 33 feet tall and spans 526 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 210 acre-feet. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Herman #2 is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Despite its low hazard potential and not being rated for condition assessment, the dam is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state regulatory agency.

This structure plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. With normal storage reaching 151 acre-feet, Herman #2 helps to mitigate flooding and provides valuable water supply for irrigation and other purposes. Its location in Jones County, South Dakota also highlights the importance of dams in rural areas for agricultural activities and environmental conservation. Although not currently assessed for risk management measures, the dam's presence contributes to the overall water infrastructure of the St. Paul District.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Herman #2 is essential for promoting sustainable water management practices and adapting to changing environmental conditions. By recognizing the role of these structures in safeguarding communities against floods and supporting agricultural activities, we can appreciate the interconnectedness of water resources and climate resilience. Continued monitoring and maintenance of dams like Herman #2 are vital for ensuring their long-term functionality and contributions to water security in South Dakota.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

526

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

TR-BAD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

33

Nid Storage

210

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

33
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.