Oliver Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Oliver Dam, located in Kimball, Nebraska, is a vital piece of infrastructure owned and regulated by the local government for the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Constructed in 1910 by HWS Consulting Group Inc., this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 48 feet and spans a length of 5800 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 8428 acre-feet. The dam plays a crucial role in controlling Lodgepole Creek's flow, with a drainage area of 1203.49 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 22107 cubic feet per second.

The dam's condition assessment, last conducted in June 2020, reported it to be in satisfactory condition despite its high hazard potential. With regular inspections and a well-established emergency action plan, Oliver Dam ensures the safety and reliability of its operations. Additionally, the dam's proximity to the city of Kimball underscores its importance in providing water resources for agricultural irrigation and flood control measures in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Oliver Dam represents a significant landmark in Nebraska's water management infrastructure, showcasing the intersection of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship in sustaining vital water resources for the community.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

5800

Dam Height

48

River Or Stream

LODGEPOLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

264

Hydraulic Height

48

Drainage Area

1203.49

Nid Storage

8428

Structural Height

48

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

48
       
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.