Schiermeyer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Schiermeyer Dam, located in Nuckolls County, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of irrigation along the TR-LOST CREEK.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, this earth dam stands at 23 feet high and spans 346 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 157 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition and was last inspected in April 2020.

The dam's ownership, monitoring, and regulatory oversight fall under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam's location in the Superior area, along with its operational history and functional design, highlights its importance in supporting agricultural water needs within the region. As a key irrigation resource, Schiermeyer Dam plays a crucial role in water management and distribution for the surrounding area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Schiermeyer Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned irrigation structure in Nebraska. With its unique design and historical significance, the dam serves as a critical piece of infrastructure that requires ongoing maintenance and attention to ensure its continued functionality and safety. As discussions around water resource management and climate resilience grow, understanding the role of dams like Schiermeyer in supporting agricultural practices and local ecosystems becomes increasingly important for sustainable development and water security in the region.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

346

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR-LOST CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

157

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.