Gunst Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Brown Dam 589 Rohrich Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Gunst Dam, located in Buffalo County, Nebraska, is a crucial structure managed by the local government for flood risk reduction along the TR-South Loup River.
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Summary
Completed in 1948, this earth dam stands at a height of 24.3 feet and has a storage capacity of 138.8 acre-feet, serving the primary purpose of flood risk mitigation. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is not rated, Gunst Dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Situated in Pleasanton, Nebraska, Gunst Dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite not having a spillway or outlet gates, the dam's design features a stone core and soil foundation, contributing to its effectiveness in managing water flow. With a drainage area of 0.38 square miles and a maximum discharge of 13 cubic feet per second, Gunst Dam plays a significant role in water resource management within the region.
As a key component in the local flood risk reduction strategy, Gunst Dam stands as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in climate resilience. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, this earth dam continues to serve the community by safeguarding against potential water-related hazards and ensuring the sustainable management of water resources in the area.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
24.3 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH LOUP RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
24.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.38 |
Nid Storage |
138.8 |
Structural Height |
24.3 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Loup R At St. Michael
|
149cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
947cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
669cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
2cfs |
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
8cfs |
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.
Gunst Dam