Rosebud Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Rosebud is a federal-owned dam located in Todd, South Dakota, with its primary purpose being irrigation.


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Summary

Built in 1937 by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Rosebud spans a length of 500 feet and reaches a structural height of 37 feet. The dam is situated on Rosebud Creek and is managed by the DOI BIA. Despite its age, Rosebud is classified as having a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment, making it crucial for ongoing monitoring and management.

The dam at Rosebud is primarily constructed of earth materials and has a maximum storage capacity of 232 acre-feet. While the dam does not have a spillway width, it is equipped with a controlled spillway type. The last inspection of Rosebud took place in August 2012, with an inspection frequency of every five years. With its proximity to the St. Paul District of the USACE and the oversight of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Rosebud serves as a vital resource for irrigation and recreation in the region.

In the event of an emergency, the dam at Rosebud has an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, with the last revision occurring in July 2005. While the condition assessment is not currently available, efforts are being made to ensure that the risk management measures at Rosebud are in line with regulatory guidelines. As a key water resource in South Dakota, Rosebud plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing essential water supplies for agricultural purposes.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

500

River Or Stream

ROSEBUD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

232

Structural Height

37

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

37
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.