Warp Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hieb Dam Christensen Dam 1618
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Warp Dam, located in Kearney, Nebraska, was completed in 1964 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond.
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Summary
With a height of 16 feet and a length of 450 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 19 acres. Its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition make it a reliable structure for water resource management in the region.
Managed by a private owner, Warp Dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a drainage area of 2.6 square miles and a maximum discharge of 357 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the TR-SAND CREEK watershed. Despite being primarily made of earth and stone, the dam has proven to be a resilient structure that contributes to the local ecosystem and supports the surrounding community's water needs.
Warp Dam's strategic location and design make it an essential asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices. Its partnership with the USDA NRCS, state regulatory agencies, and private ownership highlight the collaborative efforts needed to maintain and enhance water infrastructure in Nebraska. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, dams like Warp Dam play a vital role in ensuring water security for both human and ecological systems in the region.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
2.6 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River Near Kearney
|
1810cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1190cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Republican River At Guide Rock
|
35cfs |
Republican River Near Orleans
|
59cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1040cfs |
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.
Warp Dam