Peterson Betlach Group Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Peterson Betlach Group, located in Pierce, Wisconsin, is a private water resource structure designed by the USDA NRCS for debris control and grade stabilization along the Tributary Kinnickinnic river.


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Summary

Constructed in 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet with a length of 606 feet, providing a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet for flood control and water management purposes. The dam is federally funded and regulated by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, with a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment.

With a primary purpose of debris control, the Peterson Betlach Group plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding and erosion. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, ensuring effective water flow management during heavy rainfall events. Despite its age, the structure's condition assessment is not available, highlighting the need for regular inspections to maintain its functionality and safety standards. The dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan readiness are currently not specified, indicating room for improvement in preparedness for potential disasters.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of the Peterson Betlach Group in managing water flow and debris control along the Tributary Kinnickinnic river. As a vital part of the local water infrastructure, this privately owned structure serves as a key component in the overall water management system, safeguarding the area from flooding risks and supporting sustainable water resource practices. With a focus on maintaining the dam's functionality and enhancing emergency preparedness measures, the Peterson Betlach Group continues to play a crucial role in ensuring the resilience of the surrounding ecosystem and community in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

606

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Trib. Kinnickinnic

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

31

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.