J. Harter Reservoir Report
Nearby: Harter Pond Dam Chapelle
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
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Summary
Harter is a privately owned dam located in Hyde County, South Dakota, along Chapelle Creek. Built in 1944, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," J. Harter is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement.
Despite its modest size, J. Harter plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, providing water storage for local uses and helping to regulate the flow of Chapelle Creek. The dam is equipped with outlets for controlled water release and has a maximum discharge capacity of 1620 cubic feet per second. Its location in a rural area underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring the infrastructure to ensure its continued reliability and safety.
As a part of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, J. Harter serves as an example of responsible dam ownership and operation by a private entity. While its condition assessment is not rated, ongoing inspections and adherence to regulatory guidelines are key components of maintaining the dam's integrity and safety. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the role that dams like J. Harter play in managing water resources and protecting communities from flooding and drought events.
Year Completed |
1944 |
Dam Length |
354 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
CHAPELLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
74 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
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.
J. Harter