Oak-Middle 72-A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Oak-Middle 72-A, located in Seward, Nebraska, is a vital earth dam designed by USDA NRCS in 1970 to primarily reduce flood risks in the area.


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Summary

This structure stands at 42 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 41 feet and a structural height of 44 feet. With a length of 1022 feet, it serves to protect the surrounding area by providing a maximum storage capacity of 1103 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 178 acre-feet.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Oak-Middle 72-A has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of its last assessment in May 2016. Despite its age, this dam continues to play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks along TR-Middle Oak Creek, covering a drainage area of 4.1 square miles. Its strategic location and operational efficiency make it a key component in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

With a history of successful inspections and a demonstrated commitment to enforcing safety measures, Oak-Middle 72-A stands as a testament to effective collaboration between local and federal agencies in safeguarding communities against potential water-related hazards. As a cornerstone of flood risk reduction efforts in the area, this earth dam exemplifies the importance of proactive infrastructure planning and maintenance in ensuring the long-term sustainability of water resources and climate resilience in Nebraska.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1022

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

TR-MIDDLE OAK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

4.1

Nid Storage

1103

Structural Height

44

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

44
       
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.