Bernard Stoeser Reservoir Report
Nearby: Roscoe Riggle Otto Schmidt
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bernard Stoeser, a private-owned dam located in Hayes, South Dakota, stands as a testament to water resource management in the region.
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Summary
Built in 1949, this earth dam spans 775 feet in length and reaches a height of 17 feet, with a storage capacity of 121 acre-feet. Situated on the tributary of Frozen Man Creek, this structure is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Bernard Stoeser serves an essential role in water storage and management in the area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1000 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial part in flood control and water supply management for the region. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Bernard Stoeser continues to contribute to the overall water resource infrastructure in South Dakota.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of dam structures, Bernard Stoeser offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship. With its historical significance, regulatory oversight, and practical utility in water management, this private-owned dam exemplifies the careful balance between human needs and ecological protection in the management of water resources.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
775 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. FROZEN MAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
121 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Bernard Stoeser