Mesling Dam; Peter D Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dietz Dam; John P Belfield Rr Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Mesling Dam, also known as Peter D Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Stark County, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management along the Norweigen Creek. With a height of 18.5 feet and a length of 590 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 87 acre-feet.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 90 feet and is classified as having a low hazard potential. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, the dam is regularly inspected, regulated, and permitted by the NDSWC. The risk assessment for Mesling Dam is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk, and it is located in a region represented by Kelly Armstrong (R) in Congress. The surrounding area offers a surface area of 16 acres and a drainage area of 1.41 square miles, providing valuable water resources for the local ecosystem and community.
Overall, Mesling Dam plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in North Dakota. Its strategic location and design make it a key asset for the protection of both human and environmental interests, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. With proper maintenance and oversight, Mesling Dam stands as a testament to the successful partnership between private ownership and state regulators in ensuring the safety and efficiency of water infrastructure projects.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
590 |
Dam Height |
18.5 |
River Or Stream |
NORWEIGEN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Drainage Area |
1.41 |
Nid Storage |
160 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Mesling Dam; Peter D