Petersen Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Petersen Dam, located in Kearney, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 11.4 feet and stretches 260 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 50.6 acre-feet, Petersen Dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction and other purposes, making it a crucial component of water resource management in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Petersen Dam is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a maximum discharge rate of 87 cubic feet per second and is situated along TR-Sand Creek, serving as a vital piece of infrastructure for water control and conservation efforts in the region. With a designated emergency action plan (EAP) and emergency contacts, Petersen Dam is prepared to mitigate any potential risks or emergencies that may arise.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Petersen Dam plays a key role in managing water resources in the area and contributes to the overall climate resilience of Kearney, Nebraska. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam stands as a testament to effective water management practices, showcasing the importance of infrastructure in safeguarding against floods and ensuring sustainable water use for the community.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
11.4 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
11.4 |
Drainage Area |
5.6 |
Nid Storage |
50.6 |
Structural Height |
11.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River Near Kearney
|
1810cfs |
Republican River At Guide Rock
|
35cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1190cfs |
Little Blue River Near Deweese
|
40cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte River Near Grand Island
|
1450cfs |
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.
Petersen Dam