Dry Hole Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stinking Buffalo Little Pond
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Dry Hole is a state-owned dam located in Harding, South Dakota, along the TR-Grand River.
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Summary
Built in 1951, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a storage capacity of 151 acre-feet. Despite being regulated by the state agency DANR and regularly inspected, its hazard potential is rated as low and its condition assessment remains unrated. The dam has a history of serving its primary purpose effectively, with no associated structures and a last inspection date in December 2018.
With a maximum discharge capacity of 840 cubic feet per second, Dry Hole plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. Despite its age, the dam continues to operate efficiently and meets state permitting and enforcement requirements. The dam's location within the Omaha District and under state jurisdiction ensures that it remains a key component of the area's water infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dry Hole represents a fascinating example of sustainable water management practices in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
820 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GRAND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
151 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Dry Hole