Harold Severson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kirk Cordes Sd Noname 179
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Harold Severson is a privately owned dam located in Pennington, South Dakota, along the TR-CHEYENNE river.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1936, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans a length of 585 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 145 acre-feet. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.
With a low hazard potential and a "Not Rated" condition assessment, Harold Severson serves as a vital water resource infrastructure in the region. Although the dam has not been assessed for its emergency action plan or risk management measures, it continues to play a crucial role in flood control and water storage along the TR-CHEYENNE river. Despite its age, this dam remains a key component of the local water management system, safeguarding the surrounding area from potential risks and providing essential water resources for the community.
As a significant piece of water infrastructure in South Dakota, Harold Severson highlights the importance of monitoring and maintaining dams to ensure their long-term functionality and safety. With its historical significance and ongoing role in water resource management, this privately owned dam showcases the intersection of water resources, climate resilience, and the crucial role that infrastructure plays in safeguarding communities from environmental risks.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
585 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CHEYENNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
145 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Harold Severson