Leach Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Leach Dam, located in Niobrara, Nebraska, along the Niobrara River, is a privately owned structure designed for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 39 feet and stretches 385 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 41 acre-feet. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and effectiveness in managing water resources in the area.

With a significant hazard potential, Leach Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Although its condition assessment is currently not rated, regular inspections are conducted to monitor its structural integrity and ensure its functionality. The dam's primary purpose of flood risk reduction highlights its importance in safeguarding the community and managing water flow along the Niobrara River.

As a key infrastructure in flood risk management, Leach Dam serves as a vital component in the water resource system of Sheridan County, Nebraska. Its location, design, and regulatory oversight by the state make it an essential asset in mitigating flood risks and protecting the local environment. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and characteristics of Leach Dam provides valuable insights into the complex network of structures and agencies involved in water management efforts.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

385

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

TR-NIOBRARA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

39

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

41

Structural Height

39

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

39
       
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.