Ravenna S Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Ravenna S Lake Dam, located in Buffalo County, Nebraska, is a local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1939, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans a length of 328 feet, with a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment as of 2016 was deemed poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and possible improvements.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Ravenna S Lake Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Situated on the South Loup River, the dam contributes to the conservation of water resources in the region, with a surface area of 17 acres and a drainage area of 2 square miles. Although the dam has not undergone major modifications in recent years, regular inspections and monitoring are essential to address any potential risks and maintain its integrity.

With its picturesque location and historical significance, Ravenna S Lake Dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to enjoy. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of maintaining and safeguarding such dams becomes increasingly crucial. By staying proactive in its management and upkeep, Ravenna S Lake Dam can continue to provide recreational opportunities while ensuring the safety and sustainability of its surrounding ecosystem.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

328

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH LOUP RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.