Bronson #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Bronson #2 is a privately owned earth dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, along the TR Larvie Creek offstream.


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Summary

Constructed in 1967 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at 35 feet in height and spans 795 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 102 acre-feet. While the dam is state-regulated and regularly inspected, it has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

Despite being privately owned, Bronson #2 plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1450 cubic feet per second, this dam helps regulate water flow and ensures water supply reliability for surrounding communities and ecosystems. Additionally, being located in a state that experiences extreme weather events, the dam's presence aids in flood control and mitigation efforts.

As an integral part of the water infrastructure in South Dakota, Bronson #2 serves as a testament to the importance of private-public partnerships in safeguarding water resources and adapting to changing climate conditions. With its strategic location and design, this dam plays a vital role in enhancing water security, promoting sustainable water use, and mitigating the impacts of climate change in the region.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

795

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR LARVIE CREEK OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

102

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.