Skull Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Road Dam Praire Dog Creek Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Skull Creek Dam, located in Harding, South Dakota, is a private dam regulated by the state's Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
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Summary
Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 570 feet, providing a storage capacity of 156 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-Grand River and is under the jurisdiction of the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Skull Creek Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1050 cubic feet per second and a normal storage capacity of 124 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water supply purposes. Additionally, its presence contributes to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem and supports the sustainability of the surrounding environment.
As a significant water resource structure, Skull Creek Dam's maintenance and inspection are essential to ensure its continued functionality and safety. While the dam may not have a designated emergency action plan or updated risk assessment measures at present, its importance in mitigating potential water-related risks cannot be overstated. With ongoing monitoring and adherence to regulatory guidelines, Skull Creek Dam continues to be a pivotal asset in the management of water resources and climate resilience efforts in Harding, South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
570 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GRAND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
156 |
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.
Skull Creek Dam