Leo Berens Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Leo Berens is a private earth dam located in Walworth, South Dakota, with a height of 27 feet and a length of 400 feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1942, this dam has a maximum storage capacity of 69 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 33 acre-feet. It is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement conducted by state authorities. The dam is situated on the TR MISSONot RatedI river or stream and is part of the St. Paul District.

Despite its age, Leo Berens has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as being in "Not Rated" condition. The last inspection of the dam took place in October 1979, with no significant modifications reported since its completion. While emergency action planning and risk assessments are not documented for this structure, it remains an important resource for water management in the area. The dam serves as a vital component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to flood control and water supply management in the region.

Leo Berens is a testament to the importance of private water resource management in supporting climate resilience. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate change, it is crucial to monitor and maintain structures like Leo Berens to ensure their continued functionality and safety. With its historic significance and ongoing role in water management, Leo Berens represents a valuable asset in the efforts to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of a changing climate on water resources.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR MISSONot RatedI

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

69

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
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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.