Barn Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Harding, South Dakota, the Barn dam stands as a testament to the region's commitment to water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Completed in 1946, this earth dam sits on the Tributary South Fork Grand River, providing crucial water storage capacity for the area. With a height of 20 feet and a length of 735 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 90 acre-feet, supporting irrigation and flood control efforts in the region.

Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Barn dam is classified as low hazard potential with a current condition assessment of "Not Rated." While the dam is regularly inspected and maintained by state authorities, its emergency action plan (EAP) status is currently unspecified. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of infrastructure like the Barn dam in ensuring water security for South Dakota cannot be understated.

With Congressman Dusty Johnson representing the area in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Barn dam serves as a critical piece of the local water resource management puzzle. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience, the Barn dam stands as a symbol of the ongoing efforts to safeguard vital water supplies in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1946

Dam Length

735

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TRIB S FORK GRAND RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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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Area Campgrounds