Brule Creek Watershed Dt Dam B-36 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Brule Creek Watershed Dt Dam B-36, located in Union County, South Dakota, stands as a vital structure in the region's water resource management.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam spans 582 feet in length and reaches a height of 30 feet, providing essential flood control measures for the tributary Brule Creek. With a storage capacity of 243 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1320 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a significant role in safeguarding the local community from potential hazards.

Owned and regulated by the local government, this dam is subject to inspections and enforcement by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Despite being classified with a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of 'Not Rated,' this structure plays a crucial role in water management within the Brule Creek Watershed. With a primary purpose related to flood control, this dam serves as a key component in maintaining the region's ecological balance and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities in times of heightened water levels.

With its strategic location in the St. Paul District and under the oversight of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Brule Creek Watershed Dt Dam B-36 represents a critical infrastructure in the broader context of water resource management and climate resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor the developments surrounding this dam, its role in mitigating flood risks and maintaining water quality remains paramount for the sustainable management of the Brule Creek Watershed.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

582

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TRIB. BRULE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

243

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.