Olson Ranches Inc. #12 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Olson Ranches INC.
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Summary
#12 is a privately owned dam located in Jones, South Dakota, along a tributary of the Bad River. Built in 1956, this earth dam stands at 26 feet high and spans 246 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 41 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 28 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is in good condition and has a low hazard potential.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Olson Ranches INC. #12 is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspections, and enforcement actions to ensure its safety and compliance with environmental standards. The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but its location and design suggest a focus on water resource management for agricultural or irrigation purposes. With no associated locks, spillways, or outlet gates, the dam's operation and maintenance appear relatively straightforward.
While the dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment details are not available, its overall risk potential is considered low. The lack of recent inspection and assessment data highlights the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure the continued effectiveness of this essential water resource infrastructure in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
246 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Olson Ranches Inc. #12