Pibel Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Pibel Dam, located in Wheeler, Nebraska, is a local government-owned structure built in 1895 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 23.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 23.5 feet and a structural height of 25 feet. It spans 550 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 311.1 acre-feet, providing essential water resource management for the surrounding area.

Situated on Clear Creek, Pibel Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and maximizing storage efficiency with a normal storage capacity of 123 acre-feet. The dam covers a surface area of 26 acres and has a drainage area of 63.6 square miles. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with regular inspections ensuring its structural integrity and safety for the community.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Pibel Dam offers recreational opportunities while serving as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the late 19th century, the dam continues to play a key role in maintaining water quality, regulating flow, and providing a safe environment for outdoor activities in the Wheeler County area.

Year Completed

1895

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

23.5

River Or Stream

CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Hydraulic Height

23.5

Drainage Area

63.6

Nid Storage

311.1

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.