Herron Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: R. Fields No.2 A. Herron No.1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Herron Dam, located in Ziebach, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that was completed in 1939.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans a length of 444 feet, impounding a maximum storage capacity of 104 acre-feet. Situated on the East Branch of Ash Creek, this dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement protocols in place to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Herron Dam has not been rated for its overall condition as of the last inspection in 1986. The dam serves primarily for water resource management, with a normal storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3 square miles. While the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years and lacks comprehensive emergency action plans, its presence plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risk and supporting water supply reliability in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Herron Dam presents an intriguing case study of a historic structure that continues to fulfill its intended purpose while facing challenges related to aging infrastructure and limited oversight.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
444 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
EAST BRANCH OF ASH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
104 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cheyenne R Near Plainview Sd
|
0cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Belle Fourche River Near Elm Springs
|
17900cfs |
Elk Cr Near Elm Springs Sd
|
0cfs |
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.
Herron Dam