Petersen No. 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nohrenberg #3 Nohrenberg No. 2
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Petersen No.
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Summary
1 is a privately owned dam in Mellette, South Dakota, with a low hazard potential and a height of 26 feet. Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands on a tributary of the Little White River and has a storage capacity of 17 acre-feet. Despite its modest size, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement standards.
Located in a rural area with no associated city, Petersen No. 1 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. With a maximum discharge of 250 cubic feet per second, this dam helps control water flow and provides essential water storage for its surroundings. The dam's condition is currently rated as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further assessment and potentially highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its safety and functionality for both water resource management and climate resilience in the area.
As a key piece of infrastructure in the St. Paul District, Petersen No. 1 serves as a reminder of the vital role that dams play in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts. With the potential to impact downstream communities and ecosystems, the proper regulation and maintenance of this dam are essential for ensuring its continued effectiveness and safety in the face of changing climate conditions. By staying abreast of state regulatory requirements and conducting regular inspections, the owners of Petersen No. 1 can help safeguard this valuable resource for the benefit of all who rely on its water storage and flow control capabilities.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
30 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. LITTLE WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Petersen No. 1