Olson Ranches Inc. #4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Olson Ranches INC.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
#4 is a privately owned dam located in Jones, South Dakota, on a tributary of the Bad River. Built in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 318 feet, providing a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being categorized as a low hazard potential structure, Olson Ranches INC. #4 has not been rated for its condition assessment. Emergency action plans (EAP) and risk management measures have not been prepared or updated, indicating potential gaps in emergency preparedness. The dam's maximum discharge capacity of 420 cubic feet per second highlights the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks to downstream communities and the environment.
With Congressman Dusty Johnson representing the area, the oversight and maintenance of Olson Ranches INC. #4 fall under the jurisdiction of both state and federal agencies. The dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, and as a key structure on the Bad River tributary, its safety and maintenance are paramount in ensuring the resilience of local communities in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
318 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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. #4