Olson Ranches No. 5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Olson Ranches No.
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Summary
5 is a privately owned earth dam located in Jones, South Dakota, along the TR-BAD River. Built in 1979 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at 26 feet high and has a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, this structure plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.
Managed by the DENR in South Dakota, Olson Ranches No. 5 is considered state regulated and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 36 feet and has a maximum discharge capacity of 454 cubic feet per second. While its condition assessment is currently not rated, the structure's risk management measures are in place to address any potential issues that may arise.
Owned by a private entity, Olson Ranches No. 5 serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in the region, providing water storage and flood control benefits. With its location in the St. Paul District and the oversight of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam demonstrates the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
222 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
23 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Olson Ranches No. 5