Ruttman-Brown Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wehrman Dam 1386 Nelson Dam 9859
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ruttman-Brown Dam, located in Nuckolls, Nebraska, is a private earth dam that was completed in 1967 for flood risk reduction along the TR-OXBOX CREEK.
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Summary
With a height of 17 feet and a length of 463 feet, this dam has a normal storage capacity of 58.7 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.38 square miles. It is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its integrity and safety.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 was poor. It has been modified in 1997 to meet seismic standards, but its maintenance and upkeep seem to be lacking. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is unknown, raising concerns about its preparedness for potential emergencies. Given its important role in flood risk reduction for the area, stakeholders and authorities may need to address the dam's condition and implement risk management measures to ensure its continued effectiveness and safety.
In conclusion, Ruttman-Brown Dam serves a crucial purpose in protecting the surrounding area from flooding, but its poor condition and lack of maintenance raise red flags for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With the potential for increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events due to climate change, ensuring the dam's structural integrity and emergency preparedness is paramount. Collaboration between the private owner, regulatory agencies, and local authorities may be needed to address these concerns and safeguard the community from potential risks associated with the dam.
Years Modified |
1997 - Seismic |
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
463 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-OXBOX CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
1.38 |
Nid Storage |
125 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Ruttman-Brown Dam