Peterson Multipurpose Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Peterson Multipurpose Dam, located in Polk, Nebraska, is a marvel of engineering designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1975.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This privately owned dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and other water resource management activities. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 395 feet, the dam provides essential storage capacity of 145 acre-feet, helping to mitigate potential flooding in the area.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the Peterson Multipurpose Dam is deemed to have low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in May 2019. Situated on TR-Clear Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area. With a drainage area of 0.9 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 43 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital resource for water supply and environmental protection in the region.

As part of the Kansas City District, the Peterson Multipurpose Dam offers a prime example of effective water resource management and infrastructure development. With its stone core and earth structure, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in ensuring the resilience of communities and ecosystems in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

395

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

145

Structural Height

32

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.