Deer Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hansen Dam Joes Spreader Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Deer Dam, located in Harding, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that has been a vital part of the state's water resource management since its completion in 1963.
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Summary
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a storage capacity of 950 acre-feet, serving as a crucial component in regulating water levels and providing irrigation to the surrounding areas. Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Deer Dam remains under the jurisdiction of the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to maintain its structural integrity.
In terms of its design and functionality, Deer Dam plays a significant role in controlling the flow of the TR-Little MissONot RatedI river/stream, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1050 cubic feet per second. While specific details about spillways, outlet gates, and associated structures are not available, the dam's primary purpose is likely to provide water storage for agriculture and environmental conservation efforts in the region. With its strategic location and operational history, Deer Dam continues to be a vital asset for water resource management in South Dakota, showcasing the importance of privately owned structures in sustaining local ecosystems and communities.
As climate change and water scarcity issues become more pressing, the role of dams like Deer Dam in sustaining water resources and mitigating environmental risks cannot be overstated. With its state-regulated status and regular inspections, Deer Dam exemplifies responsible ownership and management practices that are essential for ensuring the long-term viability of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Deer Dam serves as a fascinating case study in the intersection of private ownership, state regulation, and environmental stewardship in the context of water management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
411 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
950 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Deer Dam