Brueschke Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Brueschke Dam, also known as Eagle Butte, is a local government-owned structure located in Dewey County, South Dakota.


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Summary

Completed in 1933 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and spans 871 feet along Green Grass Creek. With a maximum storage capacity of 1149 acre-feet and a normal storage of 256 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing essential water resources to the surrounding area.

Despite its age, Brueschke Dam is in fair condition with a high hazard potential. The dam's spillway, with a width of 20 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 3899 cubic feet per second. While the dam has not undergone recent modifications, it is inspected every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. In the event of an emergency, the dam has emergency action plans in place to mitigate risks and protect downstream communities from potential flooding. With its strategic location and vital role in water management, Brueschke Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for both water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

871

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

GREEN GRASS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

11

Nid Storage

1149

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.