Peterson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fisher North Jack Rabbit
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Peterson Dam, located in Kaycee, Wyoming, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond.
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Summary
Built in 1964, this earth dam stands at 30 feet high and spans 202 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition, as indicated by a recent inspection in June 2019.
Situated on Peterson Draw, this structure is regulated by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office and undergoes regular inspections, maintenance, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Although the dam's risk assessment is categorized as moderate, measures for risk management and emergency preparedness are not clearly outlined. With its unique purpose and historical significance, Peterson Dam presents an opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems, and advocate for sustainable management practices to safeguard this vital resource for the future.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
202 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
PETERSON DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
48 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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