Herman Number 17 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Herman Number 18 Herman #15
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Herman Number 17 is a private earth dam located in Jones, South Dakota, along the TR-BAD RIVER.
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Summary
Built in 1958 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 49 acre-feet. Despite being rated as low hazard potential and not yet condition-assessed, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement.
The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are unspecified, but it serves to control water flow along the river and provide flood protection to the surrounding area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1155 cubic feet per second, Herman Number 17 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating potential climate-related risks in the region. The dam's location within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers ensures adherence to federal guidelines and standards for dam safety and operation.
While specific details on the dam's condition assessment, emergency action plan, and risk management measures are currently unavailable, Herman Number 17 remains an integral part of the water infrastructure in South Dakota. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring and maintaining the integrity of structures like Herman Number 17 is essential for safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the impacts of changing weather patterns and increasing water-related challenges.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
219 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
49 |
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.
Herman Number 17