Little Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stinking Buffalo Dead Buffalo
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Little Pond, located in Harding, South Dakota, is a state-regulated earth dam on the TR-Grand River.
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Summary
Built in 1951, this dam stands at 20 feet high and spans 500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. Managed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the dam is inspected every three years and has a low hazard potential. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, it serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
With its primary purpose unspecified, Little Pond plays a crucial role in water management and conservation in the region. Although it has not been modified in recent years, the dam's capacity to hold up to 70 acre-feet of water and discharge a maximum of 900 cubic feet per second ensures a reliable water supply for agricultural and environmental needs. Its location on the TR-Grand River also contributes to flood control and irrigation efforts, highlighting its significance in the local water resource infrastructure.
As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Little Pond presents a unique opportunity for studying the intersection of dam infrastructure, water management, and environmental conservation. With its state-regulated status, regular inspections, and low hazard potential, the dam serves as a model for sustainable water resource management practices. Its historical significance, engineering design, and impact on the surrounding ecosystem make it a compelling subject for further exploration and appreciation in the realm of water resource and climate research.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GRAND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Little Pond