Gering Valley G Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in the picturesque Gering Valley of Nebraska, the Gering Valley G Upper dam stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction measures.


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Summary

Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam reaches a height of 48 feet and spans 365 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 220 acre-feet. The dam serves to protect the surrounding Scotts Bluff County area from potential flood events, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment.

Operated by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Gering Valley G Upper plays a crucial role in managing the water resources of the region. With a drainage area of 1.4 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 2870 cubic feet per second, this dam ensures the safety and security of the nearby residents. Despite its age, the dam remains structurally sound, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to uphold its integrity.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gering Valley G Upper offers a fascinating example of how infrastructure can effectively mitigate flood risks while preserving the natural environment. With its stone core and soil foundation, this dam embodies the commitment to sustainable water management practices. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources, structures like Gering Valley G Upper serve as vital assets in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

365

Dam Height

48

River Or Stream

TR-GERING DRAIN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.9

Hydraulic Height

47

Drainage Area

1.4

Nid Storage

220

Structural Height

51

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

51
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.