Shaw Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wendell Johnson Dam Gartner Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Shaw Dam, located in Adams County, Nebraska, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Constructed in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Shaw Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting agricultural activities in the region.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Shaw Dam undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's location on TR-SAND CREEK and its proximity to AYR make it a vital resource for water management in the area. With a drainage area of 1.8 square miles and a surface area of 9 acres, Shaw Dam provides essential water storage and discharge capabilities for the surrounding agricultural land.
As a key component of the irrigation infrastructure in Nebraska, Shaw Dam serves as a testament to the collaboration between private ownership and government agencies in maintaining water resources for sustainable use. With its history of construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and ongoing state oversight, Shaw Dam exemplifies responsible water management practices in the face of climate challenges and changing hydrological conditions.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
1.8 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Shaw Dam