Arrasmith Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: English Dam Shadley Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Arrasmith Dam, located in Buffalo County, Nebraska along the South Loup River, stands as a crucial structure for flood risk reduction in the region.
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Summary
Built in 1960, this earth dam with a height of 21.8 feet and a length of 470 feet provides essential protection to the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 30.2 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capability of 920 cubic feet per second. The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, serves as a testament to the collaboration between private owners and government agencies to ensure the safety and resilience of the local community.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Arrasmith Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to maintain its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. While the dam's condition was last assessed in 2014 and deemed "Not Rated," its importance in mitigating flood risks remains paramount. With its strategic location and design, the dam contributes to the overall water resource management efforts in the area, highlighting the critical role of such infrastructure in adapting to changing climate patterns and safeguarding communities from natural disasters.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Arrasmith Dam goes beyond its physical attributes. It symbolizes the intersection of engineering, conservation, and public safety, demonstrating how human ingenuity can harmonize with natural landscapes to create sustainable solutions for water management. By recognizing the value of structures like Arrasmith Dam and advocating for their continued maintenance and improvement, we can enhance our resilience to climate challenges and build a more secure future for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
21.8 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH LOUP RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
21.8 |
Drainage Area |
4.7 |
Nid Storage |
313 |
Structural Height |
21.8 |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
3cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1500cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1390cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
589cfs |
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.
Arrasmith Dam