Bakers Gulch Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: V. Garrett K. Sutton
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Bakers Gulch Dam, located in Sully County, South Dakota, stands as a testament to effective water resource management by the local government.
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Summary
Constructed in 1981 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam spans 630 feet in length and boasts a hydraulic height of 39 feet. With a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet, the dam serves as a crucial component in regulating the flow of Bakers Gulch, a vital water source in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure. With Dusty Johnson (R) as the Congressional representative for the area, the dam plays a pivotal role in flood control and water supply management. While its condition is currently not rated, ongoing assessments and inspections contribute to its continued effectiveness in water resource management for the surrounding communities.
As a key feature in the St. Paul District managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Bakers Gulch Dam serves as a symbol of responsible water infrastructure development. Its presence not only provides essential water storage but also highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate science can appreciate the significance of Bakers Gulch Dam in safeguarding the region's water supply and ecosystem health.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
630 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
BAKERS GULCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
39 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
108 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
39 |
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.
Bakers Gulch Dam