James Kjerstad Reservoir Report
Nearby: Theodore Kjerstad Konrad Kjerstad
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
James Kjerstad is a privately owned earth dam located in Pennington, South Dakota, along the TR Bad River.
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Summary
Constructed in 1950, this dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 675 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, James Kjerstad is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.
Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, James Kjerstad plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a normal storage capacity of 33 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 938 cubic feet per second, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water supply purposes. Its strategic location and design make it a key component in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential inundation events.
While specific details about emergency action plans, risk assessments, and management measures are currently unavailable, the presence of James Kjerstad as a state-regulated structure highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safe operation. As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam stands as a testament to the critical role that infrastructure plays in managing and mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events and changing environmental conditions in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
675 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
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.
James Kjerstad