Summary
Completed in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 800 feet, with a storage capacity of 294 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and low hazard potential.
The dam is situated on Lee Creek and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, with a normal storage capacity of 35 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1590 cubic feet per second. Although it does not have a spillway or outlet gates, the structure plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With its stone core and soil foundation, Harry Ritz Detention Dam exemplifies the importance of proper infrastructure in safeguarding water resources and mitigating the impact of climate-related risks.
Managed by private owners and supported by federal agencies like the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam serves as a vital piece of water infrastructure in Nebraska. Its strategic location and design not only contribute to flood control efforts but also highlight the collaborative efforts needed to address water resource challenges in a changing climate. By maintaining and monitoring structures like Harry Ritz Detention Dam, water resource and climate enthusiasts can work towards a more resilient and sustainable future for communities relying on effective water management solutions.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
LEE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
7.6 |
Nid Storage |
294 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Loup River At Taylor
|
464cfs |
South Loup R At St. Michael
|
149cfs |
North Loup River Nr St Paul Nebr
|
2580cfs |
Middle Loup R. At St. Paul
|
1180cfs |
North Loup R At Brewster
|
630cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
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.
Harry Ritz Detention Dam