Truman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Truman Dam, located in Harding, South Dakota, is a private-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 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 75 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-MOREAU river, Truman Dam helps regulate water flow, with a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated.

Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Truman Dam is equipped with state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes to ensure its safety and functionality. While the dam itself has not undergone recent modifications or assessments, it serves as a vital infrastructure for the local community and contributes to the overall water management efforts in the area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 700 cubic feet per second, Truman Dam remains a key component in the water resource infrastructure of the region.

In addition to its water control functions, Truman Dam also serves as a point of interest for climate enthusiasts and researchers interested in the impact of dams on local ecosystems and water resources. With its strategic location and design, Truman Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating the effects of climate change and maintaining a balance between human needs and environmental preservation.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

545

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-MOREAU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

96

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.