Peterson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sd Noname 100 Sd Noname 18
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Peterson Dam, located in Pennington, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure designed by NRCS and completed in 2000.
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Summary
This Earth type dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans 385 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet. Situated on Spring Creek-TR, the dam serves as a crucial component for water resource management in the region, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.
While the dam is not under the jurisdiction of the USACE, it is regulated by the state agency DENR, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being in a non-incorporated area, the dam plays a significant role in flood control and water storage for the surrounding area. With a focus on sustainability and climate resilience, Peterson Dam is a key infrastructure for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates to monitor and support in the ongoing effort to address water management challenges in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
385 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
Spring Creek-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
84 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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