Wayne Besler Reservoir Report
Nearby: Besler Dam No. 4 Eldrod Kolb
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Wayne Besler is a privately owned earth dam located in Perkins, South Dakota, along the TR Moreau River.
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Summary
Built in 1959 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a length of 400 feet, with a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential and not currently rated for condition assessment, Wayne Besler is regulated and inspected by the state of South Dakota, with enforcement and permitting also falling under the jurisdiction of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
This dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 300 cubic feet per second. While its primary purpose is not specified in the data, it serves to provide flood control and water storage for the surrounding region. With its location in a rural area and no associated structures, Wayne Besler remains an essential infrastructure for water resource management in Perkins County. Although it may not have a designated emergency action plan or updated risk assessment measures, the dam continues to contribute to the sustainable utilization of water resources in South Dakota.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wayne Besler represents a key piece of infrastructure in the St. Paul District that highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams for effective water management. With an emphasis on state regulation and inspection, this dam showcases the collaborative efforts between private owners and government agencies to ensure the safety and functionality of water infrastructure. As enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable water resource practices, monitoring and assessing dams like Wayne Besler will be essential in mitigating potential risks and ensuring the resilience of water systems in the face of climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Wayne Besler