Duck Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Smith Spreader Dam Vessey Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Duck Dam, located in Harding, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1940 with a height of 12 feet and a length of 525 feet.
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Summary
It is situated on the TR-Grand River and has a maximum storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 35 acre-feet. The dam has a significant hazard potential and is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
The dam, managed by a private owner, plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region. Despite being built over 80 years ago, Duck Dam has not been rated for its current condition, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. With a maximum discharge capacity of 840 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water supply and protection of downstream areas.
In light of growing concerns about climate change and its impact on water resources, Duck Dam stands as a key infrastructure in South Dakota. As enthusiasts for water resource and climate issues, it is essential to monitor and support the maintenance of dams like Duck Dam to ensure their resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions and increasing water demands.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
525 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GRAND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Duck Dam