James Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The James Diversion is a Federal-owned structure located on the James River in Huron, South Dakota.


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Summary

Completed in 1963, this concrete dam stands at 47 feet high and serves primarily for recreational purposes, as well as for water supply. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, the dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

With a storage capacity of 4,875 acre-feet and a surface area of 960 acres, the James Diversion plays a crucial role in water management in the region. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is inspected every 6 months by the Bureau of Reclamation to ensure its structural integrity. The spillway, with a width of 150 feet, is uncontrolled, providing a means for excess water to be safely released.

Overall, the James Diversion is a vital component of the water infrastructure in South Dakota, contributing to recreation and water supply needs in the area. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, this concrete dam continues to serve its purpose effectively while maintaining a low hazard potential and undergoing regular inspections to ensure safety and reliability.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

JAMES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

960

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

4875

Structural Height

47

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

47
       
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.