Leger Irrigation Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Leger Irrigation, located in Harding, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1950.


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Summary

This irrigation structure spans 510 feet in length and stands at a height of 28 feet, with a storage capacity of 325 acre-feet. Situated on the South Fork Moreau River Tributary, this dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Leger Irrigation plays a crucial role in water resource management and agricultural irrigation in the region. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water supply and flood control. Despite not being rated for its condition, the structure's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently not available, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and reliability for the local community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Leger Irrigation offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship. As a key component of the region's irrigation system, this dam supports agricultural activities while also contributing to water conservation efforts. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Leger Irrigation stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

S FORK MOREAU RIVER TRIB

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

325

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.