Duerson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fishko Dam #2 Fishko Dam #3
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Duerson Dam, located in Fall River, South Dakota, is a private earth dam completed in 1962 with a height of 18 feet and a length of 700 feet.
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Summary
It is situated on a tributary of Hat Creek and has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 675 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been rated, and it is not currently equipped with a spillway or outlet gates.
Owned and regulated by a private entity, Duerson Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its compliance with safety standards and regulations. With its location in a scenic area of South Dakota, Duerson Dam serves as an important water resource for the surrounding community and contributes to the management of local water systems.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Duerson Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and management. The dam's history, design, and operational characteristics provide valuable insights into the intersection of water conservation, regulatory oversight, and environmental stewardship. As the debate around water resource management and climate change intensifies, Duerson Dam stands as a tangible example of the complex challenges and responsibilities faced by stakeholders in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. HAT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
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.
Duerson Dam