Besler Dam No. 5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Besler Dam No. 6 Louie Englehardt
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Besler Dam No.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
5, located in Perkins, South Dakota, along the TR Moreau River, is a privately owned Earth dam designed by Ducks Unlimited and completed in 2001. Standing at a height of 22 feet with a length of 539 feet, this dam provides a storage capacity of 670 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 209 acre-feet. Despite being classified as low hazard potential, it serves a critical role in water resource management and flood control in the region.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Besler Dam No. 5 is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam has not been officially rated for its condition but continues to play a key role in water management for the local community. Although the dam does not have outlet gates or associated structures, its uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet helps regulate water flow during periods of high discharge.
Besler Dam No. 5, nestled in the picturesque landscape of South Dakota, stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. Its construction by Ducks Unlimited underscores a commitment to environmental conservation and habitat protection, while its role in flood control and water storage highlights the significance of infrastructure in adapting to a changing climate. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of dams like Besler Dam No. 5 is crucial in safeguarding our environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
2001 |
Dam Length |
539 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR MOREAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
670 |
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. 5