Bengston Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bengston Dam, located in Lincoln, Nebraska, was completed in 1969 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a critical structure for flood risk reduction along the TR-Salt Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 24 feet with a hydraulic height of 22 feet, this earth-type dam spans 720 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the NE DNR and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and significant hazard potential are managed effectively.

With a normal storage capacity of 73 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.9 square miles, Bengston Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The dam's stone core and soil foundation contribute to its structural integrity, while its location within Lancaster County enhances its impact on flood control efforts. Managed by private owners, Bengston Dam is a key component in the state's flood risk reduction strategy, providing essential protection for the community and environment along the TR-Salt Creek.

As a significant part of the flood risk reduction infrastructure in Nebraska, Bengston Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal agencies like the USDA NRCS and state regulatory bodies like the NE DNR. With its fair condition assessment and regular inspections, the dam exemplifies a commitment to public safety and environmental stewardship. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bengston Dam serves as a fascinating example of how engineering and natural resources can work together to protect communities from the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

720

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

140

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.