Kjerstad Dam No.3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kjerstad Dam No.2 Kjerstad No.1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Kjerstad Dam No.3 is a privately owned earth dam located in Pennington, South Dakota, along the TR.BAD River.
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Summary
Built in 1943, this dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 230 feet, providing a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. It is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of October 2017, Kjerstad Dam No.3 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but its importance in flood control and water supply for surrounding areas is evident. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its intended functions effectively, with a maximum discharge capacity of 600 cubic feet per second.
As a part of the St. Paul District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, Kjerstad Dam No.3 represents a blend of historical significance and modern-day water management practices. Its presence along the TR.BAD River highlights the intersection of human engineering and natural forces, making it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1943 |
Dam Length |
230 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR.BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
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.
Kjerstad Dam No.3