Messing Scow Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Scow Detention Dam Clear Creek 6
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Messing Scow Dam, located in Polk, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 27.5 feet with a structural height of 30 feet and a length of 615 feet. It serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, with a normal storage capacity of 25.2 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 201.7 acre-feet.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 revealed poor conditions, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential rehabilitation. The dam's drainage area covers 0.7 square miles, with a surface area of 5.4 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 119 cubic feet per second. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Messing Scow Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, particularly in Clear Creek.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Messing Scow Dam are essential for ensuring the safety and resilience of communities in Nebraska. With a focus on improving its condition and implementing risk management measures, this dam continues to be a vital asset in the region's water resource management efforts.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
615 |
Dam Height |
27.5 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CLEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
27.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
201.7 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clear Cr 1.75mi W Of Polk Co Line
|
17cfs |
Platte River Near Duncan
|
243cfs |
Prairie Creek Nr Silver Creek Nebr
|
6cfs |
Silver Cr
|
5cfs |
Loup River Near Genoa
|
1570cfs |
Beaver Creek At Genoa
|
114cfs |
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.
Messing Scow Dam