Paul's Irrigation Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Deer Dam Hansen Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Paul's Irrigation Dam, located in Harding, South Dakota, was completed in 1953 and serves as a crucial water resource for the region.
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Summary
This privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet, providing irrigation water for agricultural activities in the area. The dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is rated as having low hazard potential.
With a maximum discharge capacity of 7,350 cubic feet per second, Paul's Irrigation Dam plays a key role in managing water resources in the region. The dam spans 655 feet in length and is situated along the TR-LITTLE MISSONot RatedI river or stream. Although the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's primary purpose is to support agricultural irrigation activities, highlighting its importance in sustaining local farming operations.
Managed by a private owner, Paul's Irrigation Dam stands as a testament to the crucial role of water resource infrastructure in supporting agricultural activities in South Dakota. With its low hazard potential and regulated status, the dam serves as a reliable source of water for irrigation purposes while also contributing to the overall water management efforts in the region. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of such infrastructure in sustaining agricultural livelihoods and regional water security.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
655 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Paul's Irrigation Dam