Dutton Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Herman Kaubish Dam Vern Anders
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Dutton Dam, also known as Beck Lake, is a privately owned structure located in Perkins, South Dakota, along the tributary of the Moreau River.
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Summary
Completed in 1936, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a length of 1250 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 644 acre-feet and a normal storage of 294 acre-feet, serving the purpose of water resource management in the region.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Dutton Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam plays a crucial role in flood control, irrigation, and water supply for the surrounding area. While there have been no reported modifications or incidents at the dam, regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks.
Situated under the jurisdiction of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Dutton Dam is a significant infrastructure contributing to the water management efforts in South Dakota. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and operation of structures like Dutton Dam are essential for ensuring a sustainable and resilient water supply for the local community and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
1250 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
644 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Dutton Dam