Virgil Horton 4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Virgil Horton 1 Missile 249 (Nid)
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Virgil Horton 4 is a privately owned earth dam located in Pennington, South Dakota, along the TR-BAD RIVER.
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Summary
Constructed in 1952 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 1250 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, its condition has not been rated recently, highlighting the need for updated assessments and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Virgil Horton 4 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to comply with safety standards. While aspects such as emergency action plans and risk assessments are lacking, the dam's location in a relatively remote area may contribute to its lower risk profile. However, with its last inspection date unknown and no condition assessment available, it is imperative that proper monitoring and evaluation protocols are established to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the longevity of this vital water resource infrastructure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the importance of structures like Virgil Horton 4 in managing water flow, storage, and discharge in the region. By staying informed about the dam's condition, maintenance needs, and regulatory oversight, stakeholders can advocate for necessary improvements and help safeguard this essential piece of infrastructure for the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Buffalo gap national grassland
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Badlands Interior Campground
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Cedar Pass - Badlands National Park
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Cedar Pass Campground
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Virgil Horton 4