Dorchester 1-A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dorchester 1-A is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Saline, Nebraska, along the TR-W FK BIG BLUE RIVER.


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Summary

Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a hydraulic height of 30 feet, offering a maximum storage capacity of 422 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 128 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.3 square miles, Dorchester 1-A plays a crucial role in mitigating potential flooding in the region.

Managed by the NE DNR and subject to regular state inspections and enforcement, Dorchester 1-A is classified as having a 'Significant' hazard potential with a 'Satisfactory' condition assessment as of April 2016. The dam is designed to withstand potential risks and emergencies, although specific emergency action plans and risk assessments are still pending. Overall, Dorchester 1-A serves as a key component in the local flood risk reduction strategy, safeguarding the surrounding community and environment from potential water-related threats.

As a part of the flood risk reduction infrastructure in Nebraska, Dorchester 1-A is a testament to the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and the USDA NRCS. With its strategic location along the TR-W FK BIG BLUE RIVER, this earth dam continues to play a crucial role in managing water resources and climate-related challenges in the area. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, structures like Dorchester 1-A will be essential in maintaining the resilience and sustainability of the region's water management systems.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR-W FK BIG BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

1.3

Nid Storage

422

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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Nearby Streamflow Levels

Dorchester 1-AWEST FORK BIG BLUE RIVER NR DORCHESTER Preview West Fork Big Blue River Nr Dorchester
39.3cfs
39cfs
Dorchester 1-ABIG BLUE RIVER NEAR CRETE Preview Big Blue River Near Crete
94.8cfs
95cfs
Dorchester 1-AHAINES BRANCH AT SW 56th ST. AT LINCOLN Preview Haines Branch At Sw 56th St. At Lincoln
1.33cfs
1cfs
Dorchester 1-AMIDDLE CREEK AT SW 40th ST. AT LINCOLN Preview Middle Creek At Sw 40th St. At Lincoln
1.26cfs
1cfs
Dorchester 1-AOAK CREEK AT AIR PARK RD AT LINCOLN Preview Oak Creek At Air Park Rd At Lincoln
15.1cfs
15cfs
Dorchester 1-ASALT CREEK AT PIONEERS BLVD AT LINCOLN Preview Salt Creek At Pioneers Blvd At Lincoln
10.5cfs
11cfs

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.
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Nearby Reservoirs