File talk:Harney Peak dam.jpg

Does anyone know why there is a dam at the top of Harney Peak? I'm guessing to limit erosion of the side, maybe even a trail below?

Why Harney Peak Dam? I think I know.

As the highest point in the Black Hills and as a former fire lookout, one wouldn't want to carry water to that elevation in order to keep the staff hydrated. A small dam created in that rocky area would be a great source for drinking water (with filtration) and for washing clothes and bathing. Now, the rock tower is no longer used as a fire lookout...so that purpose is no longer needed...but the dam is still there. Frankly, it may also serve as a source of water for fire suppression on the highest peak in the Black Hills. That would seem to be a minor reason and I have my doubts that it has ever been used for that. Most of the helicopter fire suppression in that area would draw water from the larger Sylvan Lake which isn't that far from the peak. Water could also have been used to generate electricity for two-way radios though a 24 or 32 volt wind generator with battery storage is more likely. Fire lookouts often stayed an entire season at their towers in the early days. Packing anything up to that elevation in the Black Hills would have been very difficult either by horse or by hikers.

Rikwrybac —Preceding unsigned comment added by Rikwrybac (talk • contribs) 08:50, 12 May 2008 (UTC)