Bnot Ratedgess Big Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bnot Ratedgess Big Dam, located in Fall River, South Dakota, is a privately owned Earth dam completed in 1968 with a height of 14 feet and a length of 900 feet.


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Summary

This dam on the TRIBUTARY WHITE RIVER has a maximum storage capacity of 105 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Bnot Ratedgess Big Dam serves various purposes such as flood control, water supply, and irrigation. With a maximum discharge capacity of 4200 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Although the dam's condition assessment is currently labeled as "Not Rated," its low hazard potential suggests a relatively low risk to the community.

With its strategic location and vital role in water resource management, Bnot Ratedgess Big Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper infrastructure in mitigating climate-related risks. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Bnot Ratedgess Big Dam in safeguarding communities and ecosystems is essential for promoting sustainable water management practices and resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY WHITE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

105

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.