Circle Bar Ranch Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Circle Bar Ranch Dam is a privately owned structure located in Grant, South Dakota, along the TR-N.
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Summary
Fork Whetstone River. Constructed in 2013 by KONECHNE ENG., this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards.
This dam serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water storage, with a maximum discharge capacity of 295 cubic feet per second. The spillway, designed as uncontrolled, has a width of 40 feet to manage excess water flow. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, its risk management measures are under evaluation to ensure the safety and reliability of this essential water resource infrastructure. With a strategic location and a vital role in managing water resources in the region, Circle Bar Ranch Dam is a key asset for climate and water resource enthusiasts to monitor and support.
For those passionate about water resource management and climate resilience, Circle Bar Ranch Dam offers a fascinating case study in private ownership and state regulation of critical infrastructure. With its strategic location in South Dakota and the potential to impact the surrounding community, this earth dam presents opportunities for sustainable water management practices and risk mitigation measures. By staying informed about its design, purpose, and risk assessment, enthusiasts can contribute to the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and effectiveness of Circle Bar Ranch Dam for years to come.
Year Completed |
2013 |
Dam Length |
158 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-N. FORK WHETSTONE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
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.
Circle Bar Ranch Dam