Vandenberg Dam 271 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pekarek Dam Dam 23-13-02e
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Vandenberg Dam 271, located in Butler, Nebraska, was completed in 1970 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
This private dam stands at a height of 22 feet with a hydraulic height of 21 feet, and a length of 620 feet. With a storage capacity of 83.8 acre-feet, it provides essential water resources for the surrounding area, covering a surface area of 6.3 acres and draining an area of 0.6 square miles. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Vandenberg Dam 271 plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. Its location on the TR-Big Blue River, within the Omaha District, highlights its significance in providing water for agricultural and environmental needs. The dam's primary purpose of fire protection underscores its role in safeguarding the community against potential risks, while also supporting local wildlife and livestock through stock and small fish pond management. With the support of the NRCS, Vandenberg Dam 271 continues to be a vital resource for water conservation and sustainability efforts in the area.
As a private dam in Nebraska, Vandenberg Dam 271 exemplifies the collaboration between government agencies and private owners in ensuring the safety and efficiency of water infrastructure. With a history of successful operation and maintenance, this earth dam with stone core types stands as a testament to the importance of proactive water management practices. Through state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes, Vandenberg Dam 271 remains a reliable asset for water storage and distribution, contributing to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem and community.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
620 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.6 |
Nid Storage |
83.8 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Vandenberg Dam 271