Clanton Spreader Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Clanton Spreader Dam, located in Harding, South Dakota, along the TR-GRAND RIVER, is a privately-owned earth dam that was completed in 1955.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 18 feet and with a length of 300 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 39 acre-feet. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential and not currently assessed for condition, the dam is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Clanton Spreader Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management, particularly in regulating the flow of the TR-GRAND RIVER and ensuring water availability for various purposes. With a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second, the dam contributes to flood control efforts in the region. Although not currently rated for its condition, the dam's low hazard potential suggests a solid structural integrity and safety measures in place.

As a key infrastructure in the region, the Clanton Spreader Dam underscores the importance of private investments in sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation. With its strategic location and regulated operations, the dam serves as a vital component in the overall water management system of Harding County, South Dakota. Its low hazard potential and unassessed condition highlight the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure long-term resilience and safety for the surrounding communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-GRAND RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

51

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.