Peterman Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: J. Clark Salyer #357 Dam Hamerly Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Peterman Dam, located in Renville County, North Dakota, was completed in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and serves as a crucial water resource for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
This earthen dam stands at 9 feet high and spans 150 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
The dam's primary source agency is the state of North Dakota, and it is owned and operated by the local government. Situated on the Seven Mile Coulee, Peterman Dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a surface area of 20 acres and a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. The dam's risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures. The last recorded inspection took place in 1963, highlighting the need for updated assessments and emergency action planning to ensure the continued reliability of this essential water resource in the region.
In a region where water resources are vital for both agricultural and environmental sustainability, Peterman Dam plays a crucial role in providing water for various purposes. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Peterman are essential to ensure the resilience of water systems in the face of evolving environmental challenges. With a history dating back to the Great Depression era, Peterman Dam stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water resource management and the need for ongoing monitoring and adaptation in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
SEVEN MILE COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Souris River Nr Sherwood
|
30cfs |
Des Lacs River At Foxholm
|
1cfs |
Souris River Nr Westhope
|
30cfs |
Souris River Nr Foxholm
|
0cfs |
Deep River Nr Upham
|
1cfs |
Souris River Above Minot
|
5cfs |
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.
Peterman Dam