Ron Stanley Dam, located in Stanton, Nebraska, was completed in 1990 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a crucial structure for flood risk reduction along the Elkhorn River. This privately owned Earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet, with a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 35 feet. With a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.3 square miles, the dam plays a significant role in water resource management in the region.
Despite its importance, Ron Stanley Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition as of May 2018, with a low hazard potential. The dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment measures appear to be lacking, highlighting potential areas for improvement in terms of safety and preparedness. With a history of periodic inspections by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the dam's maintenance and upkeep are crucial to ensuring its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks and managing water resources in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ron Stanley Dam presents an intriguing case study of the intersection between infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and emergency preparedness.