Peterson Dam 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Beck Dam Peterson Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Located in Keya Paha, Nebraska, Peterson Dam 1 is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1965 primarily for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 24 feet and a length of 340 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet and serves as a popular spot for water enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing and boating on the South Branch Coon Creek.
Despite its low hazard potential, a poor condition assessment in 2016 raises concerns about the dam's long-term integrity. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in March 2016. While the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures remain unknown, the dam continues to be a key feature in the local landscape and water resource management.
With a drainage area of 0.8 square miles and a maximum discharge of 545 cubic feet per second, Peterson Dam 1 plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is essential for stakeholders to prioritize maintenance and upgrades to ensure the dam's safety and sustainability for future generations of water and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
S BR COON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
98 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1530cfs |
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
175cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Niobrara River Near Sparks
|
1160cfs |
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 Dam 1