Kjerstad Dam No.2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kjerstad Dam No.2, located in Pennington, South Dakota, is a privately-owned structure that plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the TR BAD RIVER.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1941 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a length of 335 feet. With a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2490 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital water resource management system in the region.

Despite being categorized as having a high hazard potential, Kjerstad Dam No.2 is deemed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection conducted in October 2017. The dam is subject to regular state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its structural integrity and the safety of surrounding communities. While there have been no modifications or emergency action plans reported for the dam, its presence highlights the importance of proper maintenance and risk management measures in safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential hazards.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure across the country, the role of dams like Kjerstad Dam No.2 becomes increasingly significant. With its ability to control flow rates and provide essential water storage, this dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to manage and protect our water supply in a changing climate. As enthusiasts and advocates for water resource management, staying informed about structures like Kjerstad Dam No.2 is crucial in understanding the challenges and solutions in ensuring sustainable water management for future generations.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

335

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR BAD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

57

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

14
       
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.