Rahn Number 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Rahn Number 3 is a privately owned earth dam located in Jones, South Dakota.


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Summary

Built in 1962, this dam has a height of 26 feet and a length of 330 feet, with a storage capacity of 24 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-WHITERIVER, this structure falls under the jurisdiction of the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is regulated and inspected by state authorities.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential and not being rated for its condition, Rahn Number 3 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 500 cubic feet per second, helping to control the flow of water in the river during periods of high precipitation. Although the dam has not been assessed for its emergency action plan and risk management measures, its presence contributes to the overall resilience of the water infrastructure in the area.

Owned and managed by a private entity, Rahn Number 3 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private stakeholders and regulatory agencies in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in South Dakota. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water management, structures like Rahn Number 3 play a vital role in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of a changing climate on water availability and quality.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-WHITERIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

24

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.