Brule Creek Watershed Dt Dam B-15 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Brule Creek Watershed Dt Dam B-15, located in Union, South Dakota, is a vital earth dam constructed in 1971 by the USDA NRCS.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 340 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary of the East Brule Creek, it serves as a key water management structure in the region, effectively controlling and regulating water flow for various purposes.
Managed and regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, this dam plays a crucial role in flood control, irrigation, and water supply management within the watershed. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been recently assessed for its condition, and its Emergency Action Plan status is currently unknown. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1491 cubic feet per second, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Brule Creek Watershed Dt Dam B-15 represents a fascinating case study in the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and community resilience. As part of the St. Paul District's infrastructure, this dam exemplifies the ongoing efforts to balance the needs of human development with the preservation of natural ecosystems. With a rich history dating back to its construction in the early 1970s, this dam continues to be a cornerstone of water management in the region, highlighting the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in the face of future challenges.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. EAST BRULE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
340 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Sioux River At Akron
|
816cfs |
Rock River Near Rock Valley
|
321cfs |
Vermillion River Nr Vermillion Sd
|
33cfs |
Big Sioux R At Sioux Falls Sd
|
21cfs |
Perry Creek Near Milnerville
|
25cfs |
Skunk Cr At Sioux Falls Sd
|
9cfs |
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.
Brule Creek Watershed Dt Dam B-15