Belle Fourche Diversion Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Belle Fourche Diversion, located in South Dakota, is a key federal irrigation structure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.
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Summary
Built in 1907, this concrete gravity dam stands at 36 feet tall and spans 2523 feet in length, harnessing the waters of the Belle Fourche River for agricultural purposes. With a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet, it serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, the Belle Fourche Diversion plays a crucial role in water management and irrigation in the region. Its low hazard potential and regular inspection frequency of every 6 years ensure its safe and efficient operation. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide valuable water resources for farmers and residents in Butte County, South Dakota.
With its historical significance and ongoing impact on the local ecosystem, the Belle Fourche Diversion serves as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate adaptation efforts. As climate change poses new challenges to water availability, structures like this play a vital role in ensuring sustainable water use for future generations.
Year Completed |
1907 |
Dam Length |
2523 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
BELLE FOURCHE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
4310 |
Nid Storage |
500 |
Structural Height |
36 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
36 |
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.
Belle Fourche Diversion
Belle Fourche Reservoir Near Belle Fourche Sd