Bechen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jones Dam Sd Noname 144
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bechen Dam, located in South Dakota on the TR-Bad River, was completed in 1935 and is privately owned.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at 24 feet high and has a storage capacity of 276 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 1770 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Bechen Dam is regulated and permitted by the state, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. While the dam does not have a designated primary purpose, its construction has provided valuable water storage for the surrounding area. With its historical significance and role in managing water resources in the region, Bechen Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for both water supply and climate resilience efforts.
Although lacking detailed information on emergency preparedness and risk assessments, Bechen Dam remains a key feature in the St. Paul District's water management infrastructure. As climate change impacts continue to threaten water resources, the importance of maintaining and potentially upgrading dams like Bechen to meet modern safety standards becomes increasingly essential for ensuring the sustainability of water supplies in the region.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
55 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
276 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Bechen Dam