Harwood Reservoir Report
Nearby: Barry Floyd Strong
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Harwood is a private dam located in Meade, South Dakota, with a history dating back to its completion in 1956.
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Summary
This Earth-type structure stands at a height of 26 feet, with a length of 310 feet, and a storage capacity of 36 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary of the Belle Fourche River, Harwood plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, with a maximum discharge capability of 440 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Harwood is regulated, inspected, and enforced upon by the state to ensure compliance with safety standards. Although assessed as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently listed as "Not Rated," highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts. With its strategic location and vital role in water storage and management, Harwood serves as a key infrastructure for climate resiliency and adaptation in the area.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the significance of structures like Harwood in ensuring water security and mitigating risks associated with extreme weather events becomes increasingly apparent. With a focus on safety and regulatory compliance, this private dam stands as a testament to the importance of proactive management and investment in resilient water systems for the future. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Harwood represents a tangible example of the intersection between infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
310 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. BELLE FONot RatedCHE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
36 |
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.
Harwood