Robert Bubbers Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Robert Bubbers is a privately owned dam located in Corson, South Dakota, along the TR-HAY CREEK river.


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Summary

Built in 1910, this earthen dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a storage capacity of 1360 acre-feet. It serves the purpose of water resource management and flood control in the area, with a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated."

Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DENR), Robert Bubbers is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite its age, the dam has not been modified over the years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. The surrounding community is represented by Congressman Dusty Johnson (R), who oversees the district where the dam is situated.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Robert Bubbers provides a fascinating case study of a historic dam that continues to play a vital role in managing water resources in South Dakota. Its location, design, and operational features offer valuable insights into the intersection of infrastructure, environmental protection, and regulatory oversight in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR-HAY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

34

Nid Storage

1360

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

34
       
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.