Oak-Middle 87-A Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Oak-Middle 87-A is a local government-owned earth dam located in Seward, Nebraska, specifically in Raymond.
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Summary
Built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this structure serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Middle Oak Creek. With a dam height of 33 feet and a hydraulic height of 32 feet, Oak-Middle 87-A has a storage capacity of 586 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 21 acres. The dam's drainage area is 2.1 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 630 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the NE DNR, Oak-Middle 87-A is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state of Nebraska to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a low hazard potential and was last assessed in June 2016, receiving a satisfactory condition rating. Despite not having an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the dam is regularly monitored, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The surrounding area is at low risk of inundation, and further risk assessment and management measures are yet to be determined.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts would find Oak-Middle 87-A an interesting site for its role in flood risk reduction and water management in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the late 1960s, this earth dam showcases the collaborative efforts between federal and state agencies in safeguarding communities from potential flooding events. As part of the larger Kansas City District, Oak-Middle 87-A stands as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in mitigating natural disasters and protecting the environment.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
910 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE OAK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
2.1 |
Nid Storage |
586 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
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.
Oak-Middle 87-A
Meadow Lark