Peterson (Richland) Reservoir Report
Nearby: A Peterson Robert Johnson
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Peterson (Richland), also known as Peterson Dam, is a private water resource located in Richland, Montana, along the North Fork First Hay Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1957 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet, primarily serving purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, ensuring its safety and compliance with state standards.
With a drainage area of 8.69 square miles, Peterson (Richland) has a maximum discharge of 1000 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway 100 feet wide. Although the dam's condition assessment is currently rated as "Not Rated," it is subject to moderate risk (3) and falls under the jurisdiction of the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. As an essential resource for the local community, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of structures like Peterson (Richland) become increasingly vital in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water supply. By adhering to state permitting and inspection requirements, as well as implementing risk management measures, this dam can continue to fulfill its primary purposes while mitigating potential hazards. As enthusiasts in water resource management and climate adaptation, staying informed and involved in the maintenance of structures like Peterson (Richland) is key to safeguarding our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK FIRST HAY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
8.69 |
Nid Storage |
89 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Peterson (Richland)