Scharman Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Huddleston Dam Little White River Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Scharman Dam, located in Bennett, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 100 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Pass Creek and is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Scharman Dam serves as a vital component of the local water infrastructure. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 125 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 2500 cubic feet per second. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safe operation.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Scharman Dam contributes to flood control, water supply, and environmental conservation efforts in the region. Its strategic location and design make it a valuable asset for maintaining water quality, regulating stream flow, and protecting downstream areas from potential flooding events. As a key element in South Dakota's water management system, Scharman Dam exemplifies the intersection of infrastructure, climate resilience, and sustainable resource utilization in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
725 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
PASS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Scharman Dam