Mathiesen Dam 159 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cameron Dam Behrendt Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mathiesen Dam 159, located in Washington, Nebraska, is a local government-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS to regulate the flow of New York Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 30.6 feet and has a storage capacity of 125.2 acre-feet, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential refurbishment to ensure its long-term functionality.
The dam's inspection frequency is set at every 5 years, with the last assessment conducted in June 2020. The state-regulated structure falls under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and is subject to permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the state regulatory agency. With a surface area of 5 acres and a drainage area of 6.3 square miles, Mathiesen Dam 159 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, although its current condition warrants attention to address any potential safety concerns and ensure its continued effectiveness in flood control.
Located in Herman, Nebraska, Mathiesen Dam 159 presents a captivating opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and community resilience. As a key component in the local flood risk reduction strategy, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical water structures to protect both people and the environment. With its unique design elements and historical significance, Mathiesen Dam 159 invites further investigation and discussion on how sustainable water management practices can mitigate the impacts of climate change and safeguard our natural resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
30.6 |
River Or Stream |
NEW YORK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
30.6 |
Drainage Area |
6.3 |
Nid Storage |
125.2 |
Structural Height |
30.6 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Logan Creek Near Uehling
|
445cfs |
Maple Creek Near Nickerson
|
60cfs |
Platte River Nr Leshara
|
5270cfs |
Elkhorn River At Waterloo
|
1120cfs |
Soldier River At Pisgah
|
112cfs |
Big Papillion Cr
|
38cfs |
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.
Mathiesen Dam 159