Herford Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nelson Dam Phillips Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Herford Lake, located in Meade, South Dakota, is a privately-owned earth dam built in 1935 with a height of 28 feet and a length of 590 feet.
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Summary
The dam serves the purpose of regulating flow on Dry Creek, with a maximum storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 88 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
The lake, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1200 cubic feet per second, provides a vital water resource for the region. Its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities make it a popular spot for water and climate enthusiasts to visit and appreciate the importance of sustainable water management practices. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not specified in the available data, leaving room for further exploration and evaluation by interested parties.
With its historical significance and ecological impact on the area, Herford Lake stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing and preserving water resources for the benefit of communities and the environment. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water availability and quality, understanding the role of such structures in water management becomes increasingly crucial for ensuring resilience and sustainability in the face of a changing climate. Enthusiasts and stakeholders can appreciate Herford Lake not just for its recreational value, but also for its contribution to the broader conversation on water resource management and climate adaptation.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
590 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
DRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Herford Lake