Eugene Miller Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Eugene Miller is a private dam located in Bullhead, South Dakota, along the TR-Cottonwood Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a length of 577 feet. With a storage capacity of 152 acre-feet, it serves as a crucial water resource for the region, with a maximum discharge of 2400 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, Eugene Miller is regulated and permitted by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Eugene Miller plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the area. While its condition is currently rated as 'Not Rated,' regular inspections and enforcement ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a primary purpose not specified, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for water storage and management, contributing to the sustainability and resilience of the local water resources.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Eugene Miller presents an intriguing case study in private dam ownership and management. Situated in Corson County, this dam exemplifies the intersection of human-made infrastructure and natural ecosystems, highlighting the importance of responsible stewardship and regulatory oversight in maintaining the balance between water resource utilization and environmental protection. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the role of dams like Eugene Miller becomes increasingly critical in ensuring reliable water supply for communities while safeguarding the health of rivers and streams.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

577

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR-COTTONWOOD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

152

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
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.