Bonita Springs Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bonita Springs Lake in South Dakota is a privately owned earth dam structure completed in 1935 with a height of 26 feet and a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet.


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Summary

The dam is situated on the Killdeer Draw river or stream and is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not currently rated for its condition, the dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes to ensure its safety and functionality.

Located in Meade County, South Dakota, Bonita Springs Lake serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 64 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 1500 cubic feet per second. The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified in the data, but its presence highlights the importance of water management and infrastructure maintenance in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water scarcity concerns. With state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight in place, Bonita Springs Lake stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to protect and sustainably utilize water resources in the region.

As climate enthusiasts and water resource stakeholders, the data on Bonita Springs Lake provides insight into the infrastructure and management practices that govern a critical water source in South Dakota. The dam's historical significance, design characteristics, and regulatory framework offer a glimpse into the complex interplay between human intervention and natural systems in ensuring water security and resilience. With ongoing monitoring and potential updates to its condition assessment and emergency action plans, Bonita Springs Lake exemplifies the ongoing commitment to sustainable water resource management in the region, making it a valuable case study for climate adaptation and water resource planning efforts.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

720

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

KILLDEER DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

104

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.