Ben Clark Reservoir Report
Nearby: Martin Sander Smaltz Bros.
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Ben Clark is a private earth dam located in Perkins, South Dakota, along the TR Moreau River.
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Summary
Built in 1955 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 300 feet, providing a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. While the dam's primary purpose is not specified, it is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety.
Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Ben Clark has a history of reliable performance in flood control and water storage, with a maximum discharge capacity of 250 cubic feet per second. The dam also has a spillway width, outlet gates, and a drainage area to manage water flow effectively. While its Emergency Action Plan status and risk assessment details are not specified, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management for the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ben Clark represents a significant infrastructure asset in South Dakota, contributing to the conservation and regulation of water resources in the area. Its association with the TR Moreau River and St. Paul District highlights its importance in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water availability for agricultural and environmental purposes. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain this dam's integrity, its role in sustainable water management remains essential for the community and ecosystem it serves.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Ben Clark