Olson Number 3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Golden Number 1 Knox Number 2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Olson Number 3 is a privately owned earth dam located in Jones, South Dakota, along the TR-BAD River.
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Summary
Built in 1954, this dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 26 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 15 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Olson Number 3 plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 420 cubic feet per second, helping to mitigate the risk of flooding during periods of high water flow. Owned by a private entity, this structure is also monitored by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, ensuring its continued safety and functionality.
With its strategic location and effective design, Olson Number 3 serves as a key component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to the management of water resources and the protection of downstream communities. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and water levels, the importance of well-maintained dams like Olson Number 3 cannot be overstated. This dam stands as a testament to the collaboration between private owners, state agencies, and federal organizations in safeguarding water resources and enhancing resilience in the face of climate-related challenges.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
212 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
26 |
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 Number 3