Thayer Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Thayer Dam, located in Nelson, Nebraska, is a privately-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1966, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. With a height of 17 feet and a length of 350 feet, the dam provides storage for up to 71 acre-feet of water from the TR-Little Blue River.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Thayer Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement by state agencies to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam's design includes buttress and stone core types on a soil foundation, with a maximum discharge capacity of 222 cubic feet per second. Its presence contributes to the local water resource management and environmental conservation efforts in the Nuckolls County area.
As a key feature within the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Thayer Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and supporting various ecological and agricultural activities in the region. Its construction and operation are essential for fire protection, livestock watering, and small-scale fisheries, making it an integral part of the local landscape for both residents and water resource enthusiasts to appreciate and support.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
71 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Thayer Dam