Latham Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Homer Faeller Nelson Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Latham Dam, located in Harding, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure designed by NRCS with a primary purpose that is not explicitly stated.
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Summary
Completed in 2017, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet, with a storage capacity of 174 acre-feet. The dam is situated along the South Fork Moreau River-TR and plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Latham Dam is not currently rated for its condition, with no recent inspection data available. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, highlighting its simplistic design and operation. While it meets state regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, the overall risk management measures and emergency preparedness for the dam remain unclear.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Latham Dam serves as an intriguing case study in private dam ownership and management. With its strategic location and moderate risk assessment, the dam poses questions about the importance of regular inspections, condition assessments, and emergency preparedness for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions. As the dam continues to play a vital role in the local water supply, further evaluation and monitoring are essential to safeguarding its long-term functionality and resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
2017 |
Dam Length |
1085 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
South Fork Moreau River-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
174 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
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.
Latham Dam