Peterson Dam; Charles 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dietz Dam; Bob Orange Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Peterson Dam, also known as Charles 1, is a privately owned structure located in Adams, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1993 by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 9 feet and a storage capacity of 87.7 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Situated on Plum Creek, Peterson Dam has a low hazard potential and is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 120 feet. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level. Despite the lack of recent inspection data, the dam continues to fulfill its role in water management for the surrounding area.
As a key structure in the region's water infrastructure, Peterson Dam provides essential services for both humans and wildlife. With its strategic location and design, this dam contributes to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem and helps mitigate potential risks associated with water resource management. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Peterson Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure development in adapting to changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
PLUM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11.2 |
Drainage Area |
15.1 |
Nid Storage |
87.7 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
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 Dam; Charles 1