Moreau Shed Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nelson Dam Latham Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Moreau Shed Dam is a privately owned structure in South Dakota, specifically located in Harding County.
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Summary
Completed in 1952, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. It serves the purpose of regulating the flow of the South Fork Moreau River Tributary, with a maximum discharge capability of 4500 cubic feet per second.
Despite its low hazard potential and unassessed condition, Moreau Shed Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The dam has not been rated for its current condition, but it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. Although it is not owned or funded by federal agencies, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities in case of emergencies. With its simple design and function, Moreau Shed Dam stands as a testament to the importance of local infrastructure in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
S FORK MOREAU RIVER TRIB |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Moreau Shed Dam