Petersen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nels (Nid) Williams 783
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Petersen Dam, located in Lyman, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that serves as a vital water resource in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1955, this earthen dam stands at 11 feet tall and stretches 545 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 132 acre-feet. Situated along the tributary of Cedar Creek, Petersen Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and providing irrigation for the surrounding area.
Despite its low hazard potential and not being rated for condition assessment, Petersen Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The dam is equipped with inspection, enforcement, and permitting processes in place to ensure its safety and functionality. With a maximum discharge capacity of 650 cubic feet per second, Petersen Dam is a key component in the water management infrastructure of the St. Paul District.
Water enthusiasts and climate advocates can appreciate the significance of Petersen Dam in maintaining water resources in South Dakota. As a privately owned structure with state jurisdiction, Petersen Dam represents a collaborative effort between the local community and regulatory agencies to ensure sustainable water management practices. With its low hazard potential and strategic location, Petersen Dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of climate change challenges.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
545 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
132 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
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 Dam