Memphis Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Memphis Dam, located in Saunders, Nebraska, along Silver Creek, was completed in 1897 and serves as a recreational spot for water and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 9 feet with a hydraulic height of 8 feet, offers a serene setting with a normal storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 550 acre-feet. With a surface area of 20 acres and a drainage area of 0.8 square miles, Memphis Dam provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and bird watching.
Despite its historical significance, Memphis Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential. The dam, made of buttress and stone core types on a soil foundation, is under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NE DNR) and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. While no spillway information is provided, the dam's inspection frequency is set at every 5 years, with the last assessment conducted in June 2019. Although the dam's condition is deemed poor, its recreational value and scenic beauty continue to attract visitors seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of Nebraska.
As a vital part of the local landscape, Memphis Dam not only offers recreational opportunities but also plays a role in water resource management and climate resilience. Situated in a tranquil setting with a historical legacy dating back over a century, the dam's presence along Silver Creek provides a valuable space for outdoor enthusiasts to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of Nebraska's waterways. Despite its current maintenance challenges, Memphis Dam remains a beloved landmark in the region, inviting visitors to explore its waters and surroundings while fostering a deeper appreciation for the intersection of water resources and climate dynamics in the heart of the Cornhusker State.
Year Completed |
1897 |
Dam Length |
4500 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
SILVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
550 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wahoo Cr At Ashland
|
78cfs |
Wahoo Creek At Ithaca
|
53cfs |
Platte R Nr Ashland
|
6290cfs |
Rock Creek Near Ceresco
|
14cfs |
Salt Creek At Greenwood
|
125cfs |
Platte River Nr Leshara
|
5270cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Linoma
|
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Ashland RV Campground
|
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Eugene T. Mahoney State Park
|
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Saunders County Fairgrounds Campground
|
Memphis Dam