Peterson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Susie Dam Braasch Dam; Wallace
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Peterson Lake Dam, located in McLean, North Dakota, is a vital earth dam constructed in 1937 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 10 feet and a length of 750 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet, serving as a crucial water resource in the region. The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state authorities, ensuring its safety and functionality.
Situated on Deepwater Creek-TR, Peterson Lake Dam covers a surface area of 27.4 acres and has a drainage area of 4.9 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential, a moderate risk assessment rating indicates the need for ongoing risk management measures. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates present engineering challenges, but its historical significance and contribution to water resource management make it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a locally owned structure, Peterson Lake Dam symbolizes the community's commitment to water sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
DEEPWATER CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27.4 |
Drainage Area |
4.9 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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 Lake Dam