Gestring Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Gestring Dam, located in Guide Rock, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, this earthen dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and other water resource management functions. With a height of 22 feet and a length of 627 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 183 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 11 acres.
The dam, situated on TR-Elm Creek in Webster County, Nebraska, has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in April 2018. The structure is inspected every five years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. While there are no associated locks or spillways, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 535 cubic feet per second, providing crucial flood protection for the surrounding area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gestring Dam serves as a vital infrastructure component in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region. With its solid construction and regular inspections, the dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the local community and environment from potential water-related hazards. Its presence highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in ensuring the resilience of our infrastructure against the backdrop of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
627 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ELM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.9 |
Nid Storage |
183 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
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.
Gestring Dam