Muhr Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Muhr Dam, located in Banner, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans 558 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 132 acre-feet, it serves to mitigate flood risks in the area, particularly along the Big Horn Creek.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Muhr Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced in accordance with state guidelines to ensure its satisfactory condition and low hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide vital flood protection and water resource management for the surrounding community. Its location, design, and functionality make it a significant asset in safeguarding the region from potential water-related disasters.

With a drainage area of 24.5 square miles, Muhr Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and reducing the risk of flooding in the area. Its strategic placement and design, coupled with regular inspections and maintenance, demonstrate a commitment to effective water resource management and climate resilience. As a key component in the broader effort to protect communities from natural disasters, Muhr Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

558

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

BIG HORN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

24.5

Nid Storage

132

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.