Sterns #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sterns No.2 Brown Dam #2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sterns #1 is a privately owned dam located in Harding, South Dakota, along the TR-Grand River.
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Summary
Built in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but it is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Sterns #1 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Despite lacking specific information on emergency action plans and risk management measures, the dam's design and construction are overseen by federal agencies. With Dusty Johnson (R) representing the area in Congress, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sterns #1 presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam in South Dakota that contributes to the management of the TR-Grand River. With its historical significance dating back to 1959, this earth dam showcases the importance of state regulation and oversight in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of water infrastructure. As efforts to address climate change and enhance water security continue, understanding the role of dams like Sterns #1 in mitigating risks and promoting sustainable water management practices becomes increasingly vital.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
445 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GRAND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Sterns #1