Atkinson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Atkinson Dam, located in Holt, Nebraska, along the Elkhorn River, was completed in 1992 and serves as a vital source of recreation for the local community.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 11 feet and a length of 1326 feet, provides a storage capacity of 360 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 29 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is recreation, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities in its 19-acre surface area.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Atkinson Dam has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in April 2020. With its scenic location and proximity to the city of Atkinson, the dam contributes to the overall water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area while also appreciating the importance of responsible water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
1326 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
ELKHORN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
210 |
Nid Storage |
360 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1700cfs |
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
191cfs |
Elkhorn River At Ewing
|
89cfs |
Niobrara River Nr. Verdel
|
517cfs |
Ponca Creek At Verdel
|
23cfs |
Verdigre C Nr Verdigre
|
206cfs |
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.
Atkinson Dam