Camp Cedars Bsa Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 2, 2026

Camp Cedars Bsa Dam, located in Saunders, Nebraska, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1954 by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 28 feet and a length of 220 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Platte River, 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 as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 revealed poor conditions, highlighting the need for potential maintenance and improvements. With a drainage area of 0.4 square miles and a maximum discharge of 216 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The surrounding environment, including the 2-acre surface area and the 18-acre-feet of normal storage capacity, provides a valuable habitat for wildlife and recreational opportunities for visitors.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Camp Cedars Bsa Dam serves as a vital component in the region's water management system. With its location in the Kansas City District and oversight by the NE DNR, the dam plays a critical role in flood control, water supply, and recreation. As efforts to address the dam's poor condition and ensure its long-term sustainability progress, the site remains an important landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-PLATTE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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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Area Campgrounds

Location Reservations Toilets
Camp Cedars Bsa Dam210 Preview 210
Camp Cedars Bsa Dam211 Preview 211
Camp Cedars Bsa Dam209 Preview 209
Camp Cedars Bsa Dam212 Preview 212
Camp Cedars Bsa Dam213 Preview 213
Camp Cedars Bsa Dam208 Preview 208