Kratochvil Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Herpolsheimer Dam Moravec Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Kratochvil Dam, located in Seward, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Completed in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and serves primarily for irrigation purposes on the Big Blue River. With a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 4 acres and has a drainage area of 0.9 square miles.
The dam's low hazard potential is complemented by its condition assessment as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation. The last inspection in April 2019 reported no major concerns, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. Despite lacking an emergency action plan and inundation maps, the dam's risk management measures and risk assessment remain unspecified. With a maximum discharge capacity of 444 cubic feet per second, Kratochvil Dam plays a critical role in managing water resources in the region.
As a key infrastructure on the Big Blue River, Kratochvil Dam is an essential component for irrigation in Staplehurst, Nebraska. Its construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices. While the dam's risk assessment and emergency preparedness may need improvement, its role in regulating water flow and providing irrigation highlights the significance of maintaining and monitoring such structures in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
0.9 |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Kratochvil Dam