Rech Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Driewer Dam Carpenter Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Rech Smith Dam in Nebraska is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS to serve primarily for flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans a length of 705 feet, with a storage capacity of 865 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Lincoln Creek in York County, Nebraska, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, the dam is rated as fair in terms of its condition assessment, with the last inspection conducted in November 2016. The dam's location in Seward, Nebraska, makes it a key asset in the region's water management infrastructure, contributing to flood risk reduction efforts and safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential water-related hazards.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the essential role that Rech Smith Dam plays in mitigating flood risks and managing water resources in Nebraska. With its design and construction overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts in safeguarding the local environment and communities. As a vital component of the region's water infrastructure, the dam's maintenance and regulatory oversight ensure its continued effectiveness in protecting against potential water-related emergencies.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
705 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LINCOLN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
2.99 |
Nid Storage |
865 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Warm Slough Nr Central City
|
0cfs |
Silver Cr
|
6cfs |
Platte River Near Grand Island
|
1450cfs |
Prairie Creek Nr Silver Creek Nebr
|
4cfs |
Loup River Power Canal Near Genoa
|
17cfs |
Platte River Near Duncan
|
243cfs |
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.
Rech Smith Dam