Ericson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Ericson Dam, located in Spalding, Nebraska, along the Cedar River, was completed in 1916 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 24.72 feet, with a hydraulic height matching that figure. It has a structural height of 33.22 feet and a length of 1600 feet, providing a storage capacity of 625 acre-feet and serving a drainage area of 185 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in April 2018. It has undergone modifications in 2004 for both hydraulic and structural purposes. The dam's normal storage capacity is 448 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 3952 cubic feet per second. With the state of Nebraska regulating and inspecting the dam, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ericson Dam stands as a testament to human efforts in enhancing water infrastructure for the benefit of communities and ecosystems.
Years Modified |
2004 - Hydraulic, 2004 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1916 |
Dam Length |
1600 |
Dam Height |
24.72 |
River Or Stream |
CEDAR RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
123 |
Hydraulic Height |
24.72 |
Drainage Area |
185 |
Nid Storage |
625 |
Structural Height |
33.22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Loup River Nr St Paul Nebr
|
2580cfs |
North Loup River At Taylor
|
464cfs |
Elkhorn River At Ewing
|
89cfs |
Middle Loup R. At St. Paul
|
1180cfs |
South Loup R At St. Michael
|
149cfs |
Loup River Power Canal Near Genoa
|
93cfs |
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.
Ericson Dam