Smith Spreader Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Duck Dam Hafner Duck Lake
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Smith Spreader Dam, located in Harding, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1948, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 110 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Grand River, the dam serves to regulate water flow, with a maximum discharge of 2100 cubic feet per second.
Despite being privately owned, Smith Spreader Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection, with the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam is categorized as having significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of its condition assessment and emergency preparedness. However, the dam's condition is currently listed as "Not Rated," signaling a need for further evaluation to ensure its safety and functionality in the face of potential climate challenges.
With its strategic location and critical role in water management, Smith Spreader Dam stands as a key infrastructure asset in Harding County. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam's operation and maintenance will be essential in safeguarding the surrounding area from floods and ensuring a reliable water supply for the community. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience, monitoring and supporting the upkeep of structures like Smith Spreader Dam are vital for sustainable water management in the region.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GRAND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Smith Spreader Dam