Homer Faeller Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Homer Faeller is a privately owned earth dam located in Harding, South Dakota, along the TR Moreau River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1951 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at a height of 14 feet and stretches 467 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.

Despite its low hazard potential, Homer Faeller has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are also currently unknown. With a maximum discharge capacity of 340 cubic feet per second and normal storage of 26 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Although it has not been inspected recently, the dam's state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight provide an added layer of security for nearby communities and the environment.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Homer Faeller represents a significant piece of infrastructure in the Omaha District. While its condition assessment is not available, the dam's low hazard potential and state-regulated status indicate a commitment to its safety and maintenance. As a part of the TR Moreau River system, this earth dam helps manage water flow and storage, contributing to the overall resilience of the region's water resources. Its history, construction details, and regulatory framework offer valuable insights into the intersection of water management and environmental protection in South Dakota.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

467

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR MOREAU RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

96

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.