Jensen Dam 198 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Jensen Dam 198, located in Howard County, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 14.9 feet with a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition as of the last inspection in April 2017.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Jensen Dam 198 plays a crucial role in water resource management along the Middle Loup River. With a drainage area of 0.9 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 293 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital component in maintaining water levels for agricultural and ecological needs in the region. However, the structure's poor condition raises concerns about its long-term effectiveness and highlights the importance of regular maintenance and inspection.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Jensen Dam 198 become increasingly vital. With its strategic location and multiple purposes, this dam serves as a key asset for fire protection, stock watering, and environmental conservation in the area. Collaboration between private owners, regulatory agencies, and local communities will be essential to ensure the continued functionality and safety of this important water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
14.9 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MIDDLE LOUP RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
14.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.9 |
Nid Storage |
71 |
Structural Height |
14.9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Middle Loup R. At St. Paul
|
1310cfs |
North Loup River Nr St Paul Nebr
|
2580cfs |
South Loup R At St. Michael
|
200cfs |
Warm Slough Nr Central City
|
0cfs |
Platte River Near Grand Island
|
1450cfs |
Loup River Power Canal Near Genoa
|
2080cfs |
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.
Jensen Dam 198