Robert Bolander Reservoir Report
Nearby: Molstad Lake Norman Schillinstad
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Robert Bolander is a privately owned dam located in Walworth, South Dakota, with a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is not rated.
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Summary
Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a length of 540 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. Operated by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Robert Bolander is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state jurisdiction and permitting in place for inspections and enforcement.
Situated on the TR MISSONot RatedI river or stream within the St. Paul District of South Dakota, Robert Bolander serves a primary purpose that is not specified. While the dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are currently undisclosed, its relatively low hazard potential suggests a lesser risk associated with its operation. With no associated structures and a lack of detailed data on its condition assessment and emergency preparedness, Robert Bolander presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand how privately owned dams are managed and regulated in South Dakota.
Despite the lack of detailed information on its current condition assessment and emergency preparedness, Robert Bolander remains an important feature in South Dakota's water infrastructure. As a privately owned dam with historical significance dating back to the 1950s, its management by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and regulatory oversight by the state's Department of Environment and Natural Resources offer valuable insights into the complexities of water resource management in the region. For enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water resources, climate resilience, and dam safety, Robert Bolander presents a compelling case study worth exploring further.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR MISSONot RatedI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Beaver Creek Bl Linton
|
39cfs |
Cedar Creek Nr Raleigh
|
20cfs |
Cannonball River Nr Raleigh
|
40cfs |
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.
Robert Bolander