Nygaard Duckpond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Nygaard Duckpond, located in Harding, South Dakota, is a privately owned water resource that is regulated by the state's Department of Environment and Natural Resources.


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Summary

Built in 1948, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a capacity to store 53 acre-feet of water from the Tributary South Fork Grand River. With a maximum discharge of 1575 cubic feet per second, the dam serves a primary purpose of water storage and flood control.

Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential and not having a current condition assessment, Nygaard Duckpond is equipped with state-permitted inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. Although lacking specific emergency preparedness details, the dam meets state jurisdiction requirements and is subject to regular state inspections. With a normal storage capacity of 35 acre-feet and a total length of 455 feet, Nygaard Duckpond plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Owned privately and situated within the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Nygaard Duckpond serves as a vital resource for water management in the area. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam continues to play a key role in regulating water flow and storage in the Tributary South Fork Grand River, contributing to the overall climate resilience and water resource management efforts in South Dakota.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

455

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TRIB S FORK GRAND RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

53

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.
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