Howes Grazing Association Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Howes Grazing Association, located in Meade, South Dakota, is a privately-owned earth dam constructed in 1998 by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

The dam, situated in the NE NW SEC.34-T9N-R17E location, serves the purpose of water resource management for the surrounding area. With a height of 19 feet and a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and ensuring sustainable water supply for the region.

Managed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Howes Grazing Association is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 870 cubic feet per second. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for the local community, contributing to water conservation efforts and climate resilience in the area.

With Dusty Johnson (R) as the Congressional Representative overseeing the region, Howes Grazing Association stands as a testament to collaborative efforts in water resource management. The dam, designed and constructed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, underscores the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for agricultural and environmental sustainability. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the role of structures like Howes Grazing Association becomes increasingly significant in ensuring water security and adaptation to changing climate conditions in South Dakota.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

445

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TRIB. JONNEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

170

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.