Heimer Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Potter Dam Willoughby Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Heimer Dam, located in Cheyenne, Nebraska, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along TR-LODGEPOLE CREEK.
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Summary
Completed in 1955, this privately-owned Earth dam stands at 28 feet high and spans 440 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2020, the dam's hazard potential is classified as high, signaling the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity.
The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a critical defense mechanism against potential inundation in the surrounding area. Managed by the NE DNR and subject to state regulatory oversight, Heimer Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the local community from the destructive impacts of flooding events. The dam's inspection frequency is set at one year, highlighting the importance of regular assessments to mitigate risks and address any potential issues that may arise.
With a maximum discharge capacity of 1195 cubic feet per second, Heimer Dam is a key component of the flood control infrastructure in the region, safeguarding against the threat of water-related disasters. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and water resources, the significance of structures like Heimer Dam in managing and mitigating flood risks becomes increasingly pronounced. As such, continued investment in monitoring, maintenance, and risk management measures is essential to ensure the long-term resilience and effectiveness of this critical water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LODGEPOLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Lodgepole Creek At Bushnell
|
2cfs |
South Platte River Near Crook
|
162cfs |
S. Platte R. At Julesburg
|
-999cfs |
South Platte River At Cooper Bridge
|
13cfs |
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.
Heimer Dam