P. Bachman Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

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Summary

Bachman, located in Meade, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1954 for water resource management on the TR Cheyenne river. With a height of 19 feet and a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage for the surrounding area. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources to ensure its safety and functionality.

Managed by a private owner, P. Bachman is not only a key infrastructure for water resource management but also contributes to the overall environmental sustainability of the region. The dam's normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet and maximum discharge rate of 600 cubic feet per second demonstrate its importance in mitigating flood risks and maintaining a stable water supply for various purposes. With a condition assessment of "Not Rated," ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight are essential to ensure the continued effectiveness of this critical water infrastructure.

Although P. Bachman has not been rated for its condition, its low hazard potential and strategic location on the TR Cheyenne river make it a valuable asset for water resource management in Meade, South Dakota. With its construction dating back to 1954, the dam has stood the test of time and continues to play a significant role in flood control, water storage, and environmental protection in the region. As efforts to address climate change and water scarcity intensify, the proper maintenance and regulation of dams like P. Bachman will be essential in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR CHEYENNE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

57

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
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.