Hoffmeister Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hoffmeister Dam, located in Chase, Nebraska, along the Frenchman River, was completed in 1938 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

This private-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet, with a length of 720 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 25 acres, supporting a drainage area of 0.5 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Hoffmeister Dam is regulated and inspected by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its satisfactory condition for continued operation. The last inspection in October 2018 confirmed its safety, with an inspection frequency of 10 years. The dam remains a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region, contributing to the efficient irrigation of surrounding farmlands.

With its historical significance and ongoing role in supporting agricultural activities, Hoffmeister Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. As enthusiasts for water resources and climate strive to protect and optimize these crucial infrastructures, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Hoffmeister play a vital role in ensuring a resilient and sustainable water supply for future generations.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

720

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

FRENCHMAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

160

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.