Peterson Grade Stabilization Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Peterson North Dam Gus Sall Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Peterson Grade Stabilization Dam, located in Orleans, Nebraska, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS to address flood risk reduction and other water resource management purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans a length of 435 feet, with a storage capacity of 112 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 12.7 feet. Situated on TR-School Creek in Harlan County, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Peterson Grade Stabilization Dam has a low hazard potential but is currently assessed as being in poor condition as of the last inspection in July 2019. Despite its condition, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively and plays a key role in water resource management in the region. With a drainage area of 1.3 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 158 cubic feet per second, the dam remains a critical infrastructure for maintaining water quality and reducing flood risks in the area.
As a key component of the water resource infrastructure in Harlan County, Peterson Grade Stabilization Dam serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to manage and protect water resources in the region. With its historical significance and continued operational importance, the dam stands as a reminder of the crucial role that such structures play in safeguarding communities and the environment from the impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring sustainable water management practices for future generations.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
435 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SCHOOL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
1.3 |
Nid Storage |
112 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Republican River Near Orleans
|
59cfs |
Sappa Creek Near Stamford
|
4cfs |
Prairie Dog C Nr Woodruff
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1190cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1040cfs |
Beaver Creek Near Beaver City
|
1cfs |
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 Grade Stabilization Dam