Bruce Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Crown Dam New Wall Lake
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bruce Dam, located in Pennington, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1937, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a storage capacity of 397 acre-feet, providing essential water storage for the surrounding area. Situated on the TR-Cheyenne River, Bruce Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), ensuring its compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Bruce Dam continues to serve its primary purpose of water storage and management effectively. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 680 cubic feet per second and a normal storage level of 257 acre-feet, contributing to flood control and water supply needs in the region. As a key component of the St. Paul District's water infrastructure, Bruce Dam remains an important asset for ensuring water security and resilience in South Dakota.
Although not currently rated for its condition, Bruce Dam's role in water resource management and climate adaptation cannot be understated. As climate change continues to impact water availability and extreme weather events become more frequent, the proper maintenance and regulation of dams like Bruce Dam are essential for sustainable water management practices. With its historical significance and ongoing operational importance, Bruce Dam stands as a testament to the vital role that water infrastructure plays in addressing the challenges of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
310 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CHEYENNE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Nid Storage |
397 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Buffalo gap national grassland
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Sage Creek
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Sage Creek Campground
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Bruce Dam