J. Peterson Reservoir Report
Nearby: W. Peterson W. Knox
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Hyde, South Dakota, the J.
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Summary
Peterson dam stands as a testament to water resource management since its completion in 1952. This private earth dam on South Chapelle Creek boasts a height of 21 feet and a length of 795 feet, providing vital storage of 210 acre-feet for the surrounding area. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," J. Peterson serves as a reliable structure in the region.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), J. Peterson is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its functionality and safety. Despite its age, the dam remains in good standing, with no reported modifications or incidents. While the dam lacks specific purposes or associated structures, its role in water resource management and flood control on South Chapelle Creek is undeniable.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate J. Peterson as a significant infrastructure contributing to the sustainability of water supply and management in the region. Its presence, along with the oversight of state agencies and the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, highlights the importance of proactive dam maintenance and regulation in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
795 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH CHAPELLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
210 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
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.
J. Peterson