Barnard Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Barnard Dam, located in Gage County, Nebraska, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1955 for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This dam stands at a height of 19.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 18.4 feet and a structural height of 23 feet. It has a length of 480 feet and has a normal storage capacity of 48.4 acre-feet, serving as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Barnard Dam is state-regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, the dam provides essential water storage for the community. Positioned on TR-Indian Creek, it plays a crucial role in managing water flow, particularly during times of increased discharge.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Barnard Dam in maintaining water supply and mitigating potential risks in the region. As a vital piece of infrastructure designed to support various purposes, including fire protection and agricultural needs, this earth dam represents a critical component of water management efforts in Gage County, Nebraska.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

19.5

River Or Stream

TR-INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.3

Hydraulic Height

18.4

Drainage Area

0.68

Nid Storage

102.7

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.