Sanderson Number 3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bork Number 2 Bork Number 1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Sanderson Number 3 is a privately owned dam located in Jones, South Dakota, along the TR-BAD RIVER.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1952, this earth dam stands at 21 feet tall and stretches 636 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet. Despite being regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and its condition remains unrated.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Sanderson Number 3 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With the ability to store up to 73 acre-feet of water and a maximum discharge rate of 1449 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for flood control and water supply purposes. Although its emergency action plan and risk assessment details are currently unavailable, the dam continues to operate under the oversight of state regulators, ensuring its structural integrity and functionality.
In a state known for its diverse landscapes and water resources, Sanderson Number 3 stands as a testament to South Dakota's commitment to effective dam management and safety. With its strategic location along the TR-BAD RIVER and close collaboration with state regulators, this dam serves as a vital component of the region's water infrastructure, providing essential services for both flood control and water supply needs. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor the impacts of climate change on water systems, Sanderson Number 3 remains a key player in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of South Dakota's water resources.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
636 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Sanderson Number 3