Bison Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gary Larson Dam Rudolph Larson
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bison, also known as Owens, is a state-owned earth dam located in Perkins, South Dakota.
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Summary
Completed in 1947, this dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans a length of 2300 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 2140 acre-feet. It is situated on Thunder Butte Creek and falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but it is designed with a buttress core type and soil foundation. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Bison has a spillway width of 200 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 11,046 cubic feet per second. The dam has not been rated for its condition, but it undergoes inspections every three years, with the last one conducted in November 2018.
Owned and regulated by the state, Bison serves as a vital water resource management structure in the region. Its strategic location and design make it a key player in maintaining water supply, flood control, and environmental sustainability in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bison represents a fascinating example of infrastructure that plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating potential risks associated with extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
2300 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
THUNDER BUTTE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
100 |
Nid Storage |
2140 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Bison