Betty No. 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Betty No.
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Summary
1 is a privately-owned earth dam located in Edgemont, South Dakota, along Bear Creek. Completed in 1956 for irrigation purposes, this dam stands at a height of 32 feet with a hydraulic height of 27 feet and a structural height of 33 feet. It has a length of 2455 feet and a storage capacity of 2029 acre-feet, providing water for agricultural use in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential, Betty No. 1 is in poor condition as of the last inspection in May 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 140 feet and one outlet valve. Although it has a moderate risk assessment rating, there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans in place. With its location in Wyoming's Converse County, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and irrigation for the surrounding agricultural lands.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Betty No. 1 to be an interesting case study in the maintenance and management of aging infrastructure for irrigation purposes. As an earth dam with stone core and soil foundations, its condition assessment and risk factors highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of water storage and distribution systems in the region. Further monitoring and potential upgrades may be necessary to address the dam's current poor condition and mitigate any potential risks associated with its continued operation.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
2455 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
171 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
2029 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
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.
Betty No. 1