Belle Fourche Reservoir Near Belle Fourche Sd Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Belle Fourche Reservoir is located near Belle Fourche, South Dakota.


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Summary

It was constructed in the 1950s to provide water for irrigation in the surrounding area. The reservoir has a capacity of 73,500 acre-feet and is fed by several tributaries including Redwater River and Hay Creek. The hydrology of the reservoir is influenced by the snowpack from the surrounding Black Hills and the precipitation patterns in the region. The reservoir provides water for irrigation and is also used for recreational purposes such as fishing, boating, and camping. The Belle Fourche Reservoir is managed by the Belle Fourche Irrigation District and is an important source of water for agricultural and recreational activities in the region.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change 0.11%
Percent of Normal 105%
Minimum 58.47 ft
2021-09-21
Maximum 74.78 ft
2023-06-25
Average 68 ft
Dam_Height 122
Hydraulic_Height 97
Drainage_Area 170
Year_Completed 1911
Nid_Storage 278216
Structural_Height 122
River_Or_Stream OWL CREEK
Surface_Area 9861
Hazard_Potential High
Dam_Length 6262
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Nid_Height 122
       
Seasonal Comparison
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.