Dead Buffalo Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Dead Buffalo is a state-regulated dam located in Harding, South Dakota, along the TR-MOREAU River.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 28 feet and was completed in 1951, serving a primary purpose that is not specified in the data. With a maximum storage capacity of 126 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 108 acre-feet, Dead Buffalo plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Owned by the state of South Dakota, Dead Buffalo is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is marked as "Not Rated." The last inspection was conducted in December 2018, with an inspection frequency of every 3 years. This information provides valuable insights for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of dams in the region.

Overall, Dead Buffalo represents an important piece of infrastructure in South Dakota's water management system, contributing to flood control, water storage, and environmental protection along the TR-MOREAU River. The dam's historical significance, design features, and regulatory oversight make it a compelling subject for further study and monitoring by those passionate about water resources and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

396

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-MOREAU RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

126

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.