Hanson Dam

TR-GRAND RIVER· Harding, South Dakota· Built 1959· Earth· 19 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Hanson Dam is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1959 and is 67 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.

Physical Details

Dam Height 19 ft (taller than 29.5% in SD)
Dam Length385 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage53 acre-ft
Normal Storage42 acre-ft
Max Discharge840 cfs
Year Completed1959 (67 years old)
NID IDSD01205

Safety Information

Low Hazard

No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DANR

Ownership

EARL HANSON

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hanson Dam?

Hanson Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Hanson Dam?

Hanson Dam is owned by EARL HANSON (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hanson Dam built?

Hanson Dam was completed in 1959, making it 67 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Hanson Dam?

Hanson Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Hanson Dam?

Hanson Dam has a dam height of 19 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.