Bergeson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Alvin Horman Hedman Number 1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bergeson Dam, located in Stanley, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that was completed in 1995 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a length of 254 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. It serves as a critical infrastructure on the tributary of Plum Creek, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment.
The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 86 feet, and it has not been rated for its current condition. Despite being privately owned, Bergeson Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, which oversees its permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam has not been modified since its completion and does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place, indicating a potential area for improvement in terms of risk management.
With its strategic location and importance in water resource management, Bergeson Dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to monitor and advocate for the proper maintenance and management of such vital infrastructure to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water supply in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1995 |
Dam Length |
254 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. PLUM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Bergeson Dam