Nelson Dam 431 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Christensen Dam 1618 Olson Dam 1270
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Nelson Dam 431 is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Kearney, Nebraska, along the TR-Little Blue River.
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Summary
Constructed in 1973 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 21 feet high and stretches 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 192 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes and is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
Despite its low hazard potential, Nelson Dam 431 is reported to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in May 2018. The dam's structural integrity and safety features are in need of improvement to ensure the protection of downstream communities and agricultural lands in the event of a breach. While the dam meets state regulatory standards for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, its condition assessment raises concerns about its long-term stability and resilience to extreme weather events.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Nelson Dam 431 presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of infrastructure management, agricultural water use, and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water resources and hydrological systems, the maintenance and upgrade of dams like Nelson Dam 431 become increasingly crucial to ensure the sustainable management of water for irrigation and community safety. The dam's location within the Omaha District highlights its importance within the broader context of water resource management in the region.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
1.5 |
Nid Storage |
192 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River Near Kearney
|
1810cfs |
Republican River At Guide Rock
|
35cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1190cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Republican River Near Orleans
|
59cfs |
Sappa Creek Near Stamford
|
4cfs |
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.
Nelson Dam 431