Biltoft Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Biltoft Dam, located in Nuckolls County, Nebraska, stands as a primary example of the intersection between water resource management and climate considerations.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this private-owned Earth dam primarily serves the purpose of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond maintenance. With a height of 14 feet and a hydraulic height of 16 feet, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 19 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4 acres.

Despite its important functions, Biltoft Dam has been rated as having a low hazard potential but a poor condition assessment, as of the most recent inspection in April 2020. The structure, regulating the flow of TR-THAMES CREEK, requires frequent monitoring due to its compromised state. Moreover, the dam's drainage area of 0.6 square miles highlights the critical importance of maintaining its integrity in the face of evolving climate patterns.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Biltoft become increasingly vital. With the Nebraska DNR overseeing its state-regulated status, there is a clear recognition of the interconnectedness between water management and climate resilience. As enthusiasts for water resources and climate action, understanding the role of structures like Biltoft Dam is crucial in navigating the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-THAMES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

61

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.