Kerkman's Kove Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Kerkman's Kove Dam, located in Nebraska's Antelope County, is a privately owned structure with a rich history dating back to 1963.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 41 feet and spans 208 feet in length. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a crucial asset for the surrounding area and the TR-West Cedar Creek.
Despite its age, Kerkman's Kove Dam remains a vital player in water resource management, boasting a storage capacity of 235 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 179 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a poor condition assessment, the dam is subject to regular inspections by the NE DNR to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While the dam's current state may raise concerns, its importance in mitigating flood risks and supporting the local ecosystem cannot be understated.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Kerkman's Kove Dam lies not only in its physical attributes but also in its role as a symbol of resilience and protection against natural disasters. With ongoing regulatory oversight and maintenance efforts, this Earth-type structure continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding communities and ecosystems, highlighting the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
208 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
41 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
235 |
Structural Height |
46 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
46 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elkhorn River At Ewing
|
89cfs |
North Fork Elkhorn River Near Pierce
|
96cfs |
Elkhorn R At Norfolk Ne
|
440cfs |
Bazile Creek At Center
|
85cfs |
Verdigre C Nr Verdigre
|
206cfs |
Beaver Creek At Genoa
|
114cfs |
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.
Kerkman's Kove Dam