Baker Number 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Baker Number 3 is a privately owned earth dam located in Jones, South Dakota, near the TR-WHITERIVER.


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Summary

Constructed in 1960 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at 41 feet tall and spans 417 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 21 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 375 cfs, serving as a vital water resource infrastructure in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Baker Number 3 is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring its compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. While the dam's condition is currently rated as "Not Rated," its emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are yet to be determined, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and management to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

With its strategic location and critical role in water management, Baker Number 3 serves as a key asset in maintaining water security and mitigating climate-related risks in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the state of this dam and its regulatory oversight can help ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding against potential hazards and supporting sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

417

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

TR-WHITERIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

41

Nid Storage

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

41
       
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.