Peterson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Peterson Lake Dam, located in Nelson, Missouri, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 31 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 116 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 82 acre-feet. The dam sits on the TR-Finney Creek and covers a surface area of 7 acres within a drainage area of 27 square miles.
Despite being privately owned, Peterson Lake Dam is not regulated by the state and has a low hazard potential. The dam's condition is currently not rated, with no recent inspections or assessments reported. While the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, it serves as a recreational spot for enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. With its tranquil surroundings and picturesque setting, Peterson Lake Dam is a hidden gem for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat in Saline County, Missouri.
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR-FINNEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
27 |
Nid Storage |
116 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Blackwater River At Blue Lick
|
25cfs |
Missouri River At Waverly
|
26800cfs |
Lamine River Near Otterville
|
15cfs |
Missouri River At Glasgow
|
28400cfs |
Missouri River At Boonville
|
29900cfs |
Wakenda Creek At Carrollton
|
8cfs |
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.
Peterson Lake Dam