Harris Dam
Key Takeaway
Harris Dam is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 24 ft (taller than 53.3% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 175 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 96 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 48 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,350 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | SD02337 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Sandee & Tom Yordy
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Harris Dam?
Harris 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 Harris Dam?
Harris Dam is owned by Sandee & Tom Yordy (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Harris Dam built?
Harris Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Harris Dam?
Harris Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Harris Dam?
Harris Dam has a dam height of 24 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.