Larson Dam
Key Takeaway
Larson Dam is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1947 and is 79 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 26 ft (taller than 65.2% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 330 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 28 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 16 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 130 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1947 (79 years old) |
| NID ID | SD00168 |
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
MERLE MINES
Private
Nearby Dams
Cable Dams
Buffalo, SD
Low Hazard 28 ftWiesner Dam 1
Buffalo, SD
Low Hazard 26 ftTurgeon Dam
Brule, SD
Significant Hazard 26 ftCable Dam 4
Buffalo, SD
Low Hazard 12 ftSd Noname 96
Buffalo, SD
Low Hazard 28 ftCable Stockwater Dam No.2
Buffalo, SD
Low Hazard 28 ftWeisner Dam
Buffalo, SD
Low Hazard 25 ftSd No Name #5
Buffalo, SD
Low Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Larson Dam?
Larson 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 Larson Dam?
Larson Dam is owned by MERLE MINES (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Larson Dam built?
Larson Dam was completed in 1947, making it 79 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 Larson Dam?
Larson 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 Larson Dam?
Larson Dam has a dam height of 26 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.