Bauer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Bauer Dam, located in Hutchinson, South Dakota, stands as a crucial water resource structure along a tributary of the James River.


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Summary

Completed in 1976, this earth dam reaches a height of 32 feet and spans 300 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment currently marked as "Not Rated", the dam serves as a vital component in the region's water management infrastructure.

Managed by a private entity, Bauer Dam falls under the regulatory oversight of the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), ensuring that the dam meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. Despite not having a designated primary purpose listed, the dam plays a significant role in flood control, irrigation, and water supply management in the area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 670 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a critical safeguard against potential water-related risks in the region.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, Bauer Dam remains a key asset in mitigating potential flooding and ensuring sustainable water management practices in Hutchinson, South Dakota. With its strategic location, reliable construction, and state-regulated maintenance protocols, Bauer Dam stands as a symbol of resilience and preparedness in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TRIB. JAMES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

32

Nid Storage

300

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

32
       
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.