Ed Frien Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hank Ranch Dam George Knapp Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Pennington, South Dakota, the Ed Frien Dam is a privately owned structure that serves as a crucial water resource in the area.
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Summary
Constructed in 1958 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a length of 645 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 145 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 80 acre-feet, the dam helps regulate the flow of the TR Cheyenne river while also providing irrigation water for agricultural purposes in the region.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, the Ed Frien Dam is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. While the dam's condition is currently rated as "Not Rated," it continues to play a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the area. With its strategic location and purpose, the Ed Frien Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.
As a key component of the local water infrastructure, the Ed Frien Dam represents a collaborative effort between private ownership and state regulatory agencies to maintain the safety and functionality of the structure. With its history of providing essential water storage and irrigation services since its completion, the dam serves as a critical asset for the community and underscores the ongoing need for effective water resource management practices in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Ed Frien Dam offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of human-made structures, natural ecosystems, and the challenges of sustainable water management in the 21st century.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
645 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR CHEYENNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
145 |
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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Sage Creek
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Sage Creek Campground
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Ed Frien Dam