Besler Dam No.1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Besler Dam No. 3 Besler Dam No. 6
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Besler Dam No.1, located on the TR MOREAU RIVER in Perkins, South Dakota, stands as a testament to the innovative design work of the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
Completed in 2000, this earth dam reaches a height of 23 feet and spans 374 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this structure has been regulated, inspected, and enforced by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources to ensure its safety and functionality.
Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, Besler Dam No.1 has demonstrated resilience and reliability in managing its maximum discharge of 2025 cubic feet per second. The dam's primary purpose is undisclosed, but it serves as a vital component in water resource management for the surrounding area. Dusty Johnson, the congressional representative for the district, oversees this dam's operations and maintenance, ensuring that it continues to meet state regulatory standards and protect the local community from potential risks associated with its presence.
With its strategic location and efficient design, Besler Dam No.1 plays a crucial role in the management of the TR MOREAU RIVER's flow, contributing to flood control and water supply for the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we appreciate the efforts of all involved parties in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of this essential infrastructure.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
374 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
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.
Besler Dam No.1