Peterson Dam, located in Defiance, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by NRCS to serve multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. Completed in 1993, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans 417 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-W.FK. WEST NISHNABOTNA R. river, the dam covers a surface area of 5.5 acres and has a drainage area of 0.15 square miles.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Peterson Dam is state regulated and permitted by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam's spillway type ensures efficient water management. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, it undergoes regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to uphold safety standards. Overall, Peterson Dam serves as a vital resource for water storage and management in the region, contributing to the conservation and sustainability of water resources amidst changing climate conditions.