Belle Fourche Reservoir Report
Nearby: Royal Mcknight Dam No.2 Us Gov`T Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Belle Fourche, also known as Orman, is a federal-owned dam located in Butte, South Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1911 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 122 feet and spans a length of 6,262 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 278,216 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Belle Fourche Dam is irrigation, supporting agriculture in the region by providing water from the Owl Creek.
With a hazard potential classified as high, Belle Fourche Dam is closely monitored by the Bureau of Reclamation, which oversees its operations, inspections, and regulatory compliance. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone recent condition assessments, but emergency action plans have been prepared and updated periodically. The dam's location within the Omaha District and its association with the DOI BR highlight its significance in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in South Dakota. Belle Fourche Dam continues to play a vital role in water supply for irrigation and recreation, contributing to the sustainable development of the region.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
6262 |
Dam Height |
122 |
River Or Stream |
OWL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9861 |
Hydraulic Height |
97 |
Drainage Area |
170 |
Nid Storage |
278216 |
Structural Height |
122 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
122 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Belle Fourche
Belle Fourche Reservoir Near Belle Fourche Sd