Leger Badlands Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Leger East Dunn Road Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Leger Badlands Dam, located in Harding, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
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Summary
Built in 1960 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 370 feet, with a storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-MOREAU river, the dam is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources to ensure its safety and functionality.
Despite its low hazard potential, Leger Badlands Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water supply for the surrounding area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 840 cubic feet per second, the dam contributes to the overall hydrological management of the region, especially during periods of heavy rainfall or snowmelt. While its condition is currently rated as 'Not Rated', the dam's importance in mitigating risks associated with extreme weather events underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its effectiveness in the face of changing climate patterns.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Leger Badlands Dam highlights the interconnectedness between infrastructure, natural systems, and climate resilience. By recognizing the role of dams in managing water resources and mitigating risks associated with climate change, we can better appreciate the importance of sustainable water management practices and infrastructure investments in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the impacts of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
370 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MOREAU |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
68 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Leger Badlands Dam