Barnett Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Barnett Dam, located in Gosper, Nebraska, is a significant earth dam designed by USDA NRCS in 1961 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 13 feet and stretching 255 feet in length, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Barnett Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. It is situated on TR-DEER CREEK and has a drainage area of 3.1 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 925 cubic feet per second. Despite its modest size, the dam serves as a key component in the flood control infrastructure of the area, safeguarding against potential water-related disasters and contributing to the overall resilience of the community. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate adaptation will find Barnett Dam to be a fascinating example of how infrastructure can effectively mitigate risks and enhance water management practices in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

255

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR-DEER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

3.1

Nid Storage

110

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.