Baker Number 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Baker Number 2 is a privately owned earth dam located in Jones, South Dakota, along the TR-WHITERIVER.


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Summary

Constructed in 1962 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Baker Number 2 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.

Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Baker Number 2 is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its age, this dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively and safely, contributing to flood control and water supply management in the region. The dam's location within the St. Paul District underscores its importance in maintaining water resources and protecting the surrounding environment.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Baker Number 2 offers a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and management. Its historical significance, design features, and operational characteristics provide valuable insights into the intersection of water resources, engineering, and environmental stewardship. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, understanding the role of structures like Baker Number 2 becomes increasingly relevant for sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

396

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-WHITERIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

34

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.