Cutler Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Muth Dam Drolc No.1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Cutler Dam, located in Harding, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 91 acre-feet. Situated on the Trib N Fork Grand River, Cutler Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections and permitting processes to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations.
With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Cutler Dam continues to serve as a vital infrastructure for water storage and flood control in the region. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 1260 cubic feet per second, helping to mitigate the risk of water-related emergencies. Although the dam has not been assessed for its Emergency Action Plan (EAP) preparedness or risk management measures, its presence underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate science can find value in studying the role of Cutler Dam within the broader context of water infrastructure development and management in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB N FORK GRAND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
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.
Cutler Dam