Beaulieu Reservoir Report
Nearby: Keefe Dam Mclaughlin Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Beaulieu is a state-regulated dam located in Tripp, South Dakota, along the Thunder Creek tributary.
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Summary
Completed in 1947, this earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet and has a storage capacity of 465 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 3000 cubic feet per second, Beaulieu serves a vital role in managing water resources in the area.
Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Beaulieu is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in November 2020. The dam undergoes regular inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With the dam meeting state regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, it plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage for the region.
Managed by the South Dakota state agency, Beaulieu remains an essential piece of infrastructure in safeguarding the local community from potential water-related risks. With its historical significance dating back over seven decades, the dam continues to be a key component in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
THUNDER CREEK TRIBUTARY |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
36 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
465 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Niobrara River Near Sparks
|
934cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
188cfs |
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.
Beaulieu