Sargent Irrigation Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: R. Hanson Dam Benson Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
The Sargent Irrigation Dam, located in Tripp, South Dakota, is a vital water resource infrastructure that plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the Dry Draw- Keyapaha River.
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Summary
Completed in 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 67 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 870 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 720 acre-feet. It serves as a key component in the irrigation system of the area, providing water for agricultural activities in the region.
Managed by a private owner, the Sargent Irrigation Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets necessary safety and environmental standards. With a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, indicating a need for further evaluation. Despite its age, the dam continues to function effectively, with the last inspection conducted in October 1983.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Sargent Irrigation Dam presents an intriguing case study of a crucial infrastructure supporting agricultural activities in South Dakota. As discussions around water management and climate change intensify, understanding the role and condition of such dams becomes increasingly important for ensuring sustainable water resource management in the region. The Sargent Irrigation Dam stands as a testament to the intricate balance between human interventions in natural systems and the need for responsible stewardship of water resources in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
930 |
Dam Height |
67 |
River Or Stream |
DRY DRAW - KEYAPAHA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
47 |
Nid Storage |
870 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
67 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Niobrara River Near Sparks
|
934cfs |
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
188cfs |
Little White R Near Rosebud Sd
|
96cfs |
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1530cfs |
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.
Sargent Irrigation Dam