Parsons Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Milesville Dam ??? Staben Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Parsons Dam, located in Haakon, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that was completed in 1974.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 400 feet, with a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Helser Draw river, within the jurisdiction of the state and regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Despite its low hazard potential, Parsons Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2100 cubic feet per second. The dam provides flood control and water storage for agricultural and environmental purposes, contributing to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem. Although the condition of the dam is currently not rated, regular inspections and enforcement by state authorities ensure its safety and functionality for the community.
With its strategic location and operational efficiency, Parsons Dam serves as a key infrastructure for sustainable water management in South Dakota. As climate change continues to impact the region, the dam's role in mitigating floods and ensuring water availability becomes increasingly significant. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of Parsons Dam in maintaining the resilience and sustainability of the local ecosystem in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
HELSER DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Parsons Dam