Leger East Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Leger East is a private-owned dam located in Harding, South Dakota, along the South Fork Moreau River Tributary.


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Summary

Built in 1955, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet. Although it is not currently rated for condition assessment, Leger East is under state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

The dam's low hazard potential makes it a relatively low-risk structure, although specific emergency preparedness details such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps are not readily available. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Leger East plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region. With a maximum discharge capacity of 780 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for both water supply and environmental protection in the area.

In the absence of a detailed risk assessment and management plan, the condition of Leger East remains uncertain. However, with its strategic location and functions, this dam continues to be a key asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intersection of infrastructure, conservation, and regulatory oversight in safeguarding critical water resources in South Dakota.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

S FORK MOREAU RIVER TRIB

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

64

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.