Kadlecek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Sheridan County, Nebraska, Kadlecek Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Built in 1955 by the USDA NRCS, this private-owned earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. With a height of 31 feet and a capacity of 147 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of Beaver Creek and providing essential water storage for the surrounding area.

Despite its importance, Kadlecek Dam is currently in poor condition, highlighting the need for regular maintenance and inspection. The dam has a low hazard potential but its condition assessment raises concerns about its long-term stability. The Nebraska Department of Natural Resources regulates and inspects the dam, ensuring that it meets state standards for safety and functionality. With a drainage area of 15.5 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the impact of dams like Kadlecek Dam, it is essential to prioritize maintenance and risk management measures to ensure their continued effectiveness. With a last inspection date in May 2020 and an inspection frequency of 5 years, stakeholders are working towards enhancing the resilience of this vital infrastructure. By collaborating with state agencies and implementing necessary repairs, Kadlecek Dam can continue to support the local ecosystem and community for years to come.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

292

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

BEAVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

15.5

Nid Storage

147

Structural Height

33

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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.