Tornow No. 2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tornow Number 1 Dykstra Number 3
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Tornow No.
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Summary
2 is a privately owned earth dam located in Jones, South Dakota, along the TR-DRY CREEK. Constructed in 1976 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Tornow No. 2 is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Tornow No. 2 serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, providing essential water storage for agricultural and environmental purposes. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and preventing potential flood risks in the region. The uncontrolled spillway of 90 feet wide ensures efficient water release during times of excess inflow.
Located in a rural area with limited development, the dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified. With Dusty Johnson (R) as the Congressional Representative for the district, Tornow No. 2 is a key component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to the sustainability and resilience of the surrounding ecosystem. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources, the importance of dams like Tornow No. 2 in mitigating risks and ensuring water security becomes increasingly evident for both agricultural and environmental interests.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
312 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-DRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
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.
Tornow No. 2