Cottonmill Dam, located in Kearney, Nebraska, is a local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1940, this earth dam stands at 8 feet tall and stretches 800 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 302.3 acre-feet and a normal storage of 178.1 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-Platte River, within the Buffalo County of Nebraska, offering a surface area of 42.1 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy.
Maintained by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Cottonmill Dam has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in March 2020. With its proximity to the Platte River and its surrounding natural beauty, the dam provides a serene setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the role of Cottonmill Dam in providing a recreational outlet while also maintaining the necessary infrastructure for managing water levels and ensuring public safety in the area.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PLATTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
42.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
1.5 |
Nid Storage |
302.3 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
928cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1280cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1390cfs |
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Union Pacific State Rec Area
|
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Fort Kearny State Rec Area
|
||
Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area
|
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Sandy Channel State Rec Area
|