Don Alt Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Torell Dam Miller Dam 1653
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Polk, Nebraska, the Don Alt Dam was completed in 1969 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the TR-Big Blue River.
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Summary
With a height of 19 feet and a length of 610 feet, this earth dam has a storage capacity of 110.9 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5.2 acres. Despite its poor condition assessment, the dam's hazard potential is deemed low, making it a relatively safe structure in the event of emergencies.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the NE DNR, the Don Alt Dam undergoes inspections every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, aligning with its design and core function. Despite lacking detailed spillway information and outlet gates, the dam continues to play a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events, showcasing its importance in water resource management in Nebraska.
With its location in the Omaha District and under the jurisdiction of the state, the Don Alt Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal and local agencies in safeguarding communities from natural disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance and functionality of structures like the Don Alt Dam highlights the ongoing need for effective dam management and maintenance to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in flood-prone regions.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
610 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
110.9 |
Structural Height |
21.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clear Cr 1.75mi W Of Polk Co Line
|
17cfs |
Platte River Near Duncan
|
243cfs |
Silver Cr
|
6cfs |
Prairie Creek Nr Silver Creek Nebr
|
4cfs |
Loup River Near Genoa
|
3030cfs |
West Fork Big Blue River Nr Dorchester
|
39cfs |
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.
Don Alt Dam