Bernard Armstrong Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Midland, South Dakota, the Bernard Armstrong dam stands as a private water resource structure with a significant hazard potential.


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Summary

Constructed in 1969, this earth dam stretches 201 feet in length and reaches a height of 26 feet, providing a storage capacity of 832 acre-feet. Situated along the TR Bad River, this dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement.

With a moderate risk assessment rating, the Bernard Armstrong dam poses a potential threat that necessitates careful monitoring and management measures. While the structure's condition is currently not rated, its hazard potential and risk level highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and adherence to safety guidelines. The dam's location within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores its vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find the Bernard Armstrong dam's data intriguing, showcasing its role as a crucial infrastructure in South Dakota's water management system. As a privately-owned structure with state regulation and oversight, this dam serves as a key component in ensuring water supply reliability and mitigating potential risks to surrounding communities. With its significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the Bernard Armstrong dam exemplifies the ongoing challenges and responsibilities inherent in maintaining critical water resource infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

201

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR BAD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

832

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

26
       
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.