Besler Dam No. 4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wayne Besler Besler Dam #2
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Besler Dam No.
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Summary
4, located in Perkins, South Dakota, is a private earth dam completed in the year 2000 by Ducks Unlimited. The dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 260 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 102 acre-feet. Situated on the TR Moreau River, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing flood control in the area. It has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Besler Dam No. 4 is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Although the dam is not currently rated for its condition, it has not undergone any significant modifications since its construction. The spillway, with a width of 40 feet, is designed as uncontrolled, allowing for excess water to flow out in the event of heavy rainfall or flooding. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, the dam contributes to water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Besler Dam No. 4 is an essential component of the local water infrastructure, providing vital water storage and flood control capabilities. With its strategic location and design features, the dam serves as a critical asset for mitigating water-related risks and ensuring the sustainable management of the TR Moreau River watershed. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and function of dams like Besler Dam No. 4 is crucial for promoting resilience and adaptation to changing environmental conditions in South Dakota and beyond.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
353 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
260 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
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. 4