Fanning Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stiver South Dam Browns Canyon 1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Fanning Dam, located in Scotts Bluff, Nebraska, was completed in 1962 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a vital flood risk reduction infrastructure along the TR-North Platte River.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 18 feet with a dam length of 850 feet, the earth dam boasts a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.6 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Managed by a private owner, Fanning Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events. With a satisfactory condition assessment and a history of meeting regulatory standards, the dam remains a reliable asset for water resource management in the region. Its strategic location and design, along with state jurisdiction and enforcement, highlight the collaborative efforts between government agencies and private stakeholders to safeguard the local environment and infrastructure.
As a key component of flood control infrastructure in Nebraska, Fanning Dam exemplifies the importance of effective water resource management and climate resilience. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam not only provides critical protection for the area but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the region. By adhering to state regulations and undergoing regular inspections, Fanning Dam stands as a testament to the proactive measures taken to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of communities in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH PLATTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
0.6 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Zeigler Park - Mitchell
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Riverside Park - Terrytown
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Scenic Knolls City Golf Course and Campground
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Robidoux RV Park
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Fanning Dam