Oldfather Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Oldfather Dam, located in Valley, Nebraska, was completed in 1964 by the USDA NRCS and stands as a crucial structure for flood risk reduction along TR-Turtle Creek.
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Summary
The 31-foot high earth dam with a stone core spans 380 feet and has a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet, serving as a primary source of protection for the surrounding area. While state regulated and inspected by the NE DNR, the dam is considered to have low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, ensuring its reliability in mitigating potential dangers.
With a normal storage capacity of 296 acre-feet and a drainage area of 6.8 square miles, Oldfather Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. Its location, design, and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight the importance of collaboration between private owners and government agencies in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of such critical infrastructure. Despite its age, the dam continues to operate within acceptable standards, providing essential protection against potential flooding events and demonstrating the ongoing commitment to water resource management in Nebraska.
As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the frequency of extreme events, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Oldfather Dam become even more crucial. With its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam stands as a testament to successful water resource management practices, serving as a model for future infrastructure projects. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Oldfather Dam lies not only in its physical presence but in the collaborative efforts and strategic planning that have gone into its design and operation, ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding community for years to come.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TURTLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
6.8 |
Nid Storage |
600 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Loup River At Taylor
|
511cfs |
North Loup River Nr St Paul Nebr
|
2580cfs |
Middle Loup R. At St. Paul
|
1250cfs |
South Loup R At St. Michael
|
200cfs |
North Loup R At Brewster
|
374cfs |
Elkhorn River At Ewing
|
89cfs |
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.
Oldfather Dam