Skolnik Dam 78 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Skolnik Dam 263 Moravec Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Skolnik Dam 78, located in Seward, Nebraska, is a privately owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
Completed in 1966, this dam stands at a height of 16.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 101.7 acre-feet, serving the irrigation needs of the surrounding area. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential improvements to ensure its safety and functionality.
The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections to meet permitting and enforcement requirements. With a drainage area of 1.13 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 1039 cubic feet per second, Skolnik Dam 78 plays a crucial role in managing water resources for irrigation in the region. Although the dam's condition assessment raises concerns, its strategic location on the TR-Weedy Creek ensures efficient water distribution for agricultural purposes in the area.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to monitor and address the maintenance needs of dams like Skolnik Dam 78 to ensure the sustainability of water management systems. By investing in the upkeep and improvement of infrastructure like this dam, we can enhance the resilience of agricultural practices and support the long-term viability of water resources in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
585 |
Dam Height |
16.5 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEEDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
16.5 |
Drainage Area |
1.13 |
Nid Storage |
101.7 |
Structural Height |
16.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Skolnik Dam 78
Oxbow Trail Recreation Area