Baker Number 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Baker Number 3, located in Jones, South Dakota, is a private earth dam completed in 1960 with a height of 25 feet and a length of 348 feet.


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Summary

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam on the TR-WHITERIVER contributes to flood control and water resource management in the area. With a maximum storage capacity of 19 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 15 acre-feet, Baker Number 3 plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and mitigating potential hazards in the region.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not yet rated for condition assessment, Baker Number 3 is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) with state-permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols in place. The dam's location at 43.845 latitude and -100.648333 longitude, coupled with its association with the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, underscores its significance in the water resource infrastructure of the area. As a key component of the local water management system, Baker Number 3 stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource practices in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.

With Dusty Johnson (R) representing the area in Congress, Baker Number 3 serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in South Dakota's water resource management network. While further assessment and risk management measures may be needed to ensure its long-term resilience, the presence of this dam highlights the ongoing efforts to safeguard water resources and mitigate potential impacts of climate change in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and support initiatives for sustainable water management, Baker Number 3 remains a focal point for collaboration and innovation in ensuring water security for present and future generations.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

348

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-WHITERIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

19

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.