Willoughby Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jung Dam Potter Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Cheyenne, Nebraska, the Willoughby Dam is a private-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS to reduce flood risks along the TR-LODGEPOLE CREEK.
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Summary
Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at 31 feet high and spans 637 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 263 acre-feet. Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the dam is regularly inspected and regulated to ensure its safety and effectiveness in flood risk reduction.
Despite its fair condition assessment, the Willoughby Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its location and design. With a maximum discharge capacity of 2,020 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting downstream areas from flooding. As part of its emergency preparedness, the dam is subject to regular inspections and maintenance, with the last assessment conducted in August 2020 to ensure its structural integrity and readiness for potential flood events.
As a key component in the flood risk reduction infrastructure of Nebraska, the Willoughby Dam serves as a vital resource in preserving the safety and well-being of the surrounding communities. With its strategic design and regulated management, the dam continues to play a crucial role in protecting properties and lives from the impacts of extreme weather events, showcasing the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
637 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LODGEPOLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
263 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
Willoughby Dam