The Heppner Dam
Key Takeaway
The Heppner Dam is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 32 ft (taller than 90.4% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 1,230 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 560 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 420 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 40 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1935 (91 years old) |
| NID ID | SD01399 |
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
HEPPNER RANCH (RUSSELL)
Private
Nearby Dams
Henderson House Dam
Fall River, SD
Significant Hazard 20 ftHelsels Plum Creek Dam
Fall River, SD
Low Hazard 18 ftCold Creek Dam
Fall River, SD
Significant Hazard 15 ftJ. Chlecq Dam
Fall River, SD
Low Hazard 26 ftTrotter Ranch Dam
Fall River, SD
Low Hazard 11 ftBhif Dam
Fall River, SD
Low Hazard 13 ftCaylor Ranch Dam
Fall River, SD
Significant Hazard 12 ftDuerson Dam
Fall River, SD
Low Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of The Heppner Dam?
The Heppner 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 The Heppner Dam?
The Heppner Dam is owned by HEPPNER RANCH (RUSSELL) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was The Heppner Dam built?
The Heppner Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 The Heppner Dam?
The Heppner 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 The Heppner Dam?
The Heppner Dam has a dam height of 32 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.