Whitney Dam 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Blust Dam Pilster Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Whitney Dam 1, located in Dawes, Nebraska, serves as a vital component in the irrigation infrastructure of the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1922, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet, with a hydraulic height of 17 feet, and a length of 3700 feet. Its primary purpose is irrigation, with a normal storage capacity of 10,000 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 14,000 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 984 acres and draining an area of 1.6 square miles.
Despite its historical significance and importance for irrigation, Whitney Dam 1 is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in August 2017. Although there are no spillways or outlet gates identified, the dam's structural integrity and maintenance are essential in ensuring its continued function and safety for the surrounding community and the White River.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Whitney Dam 1 presents a fascinating case study of a century-old irrigation structure in need of attention and potential rehabilitation. As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, the resilience and upkeep of dams like Whitney Dam 1 become increasingly important for sustainable water management and agricultural practices in the region. The dam's location, design details, and ownership by the local government all contribute to its significance as a key piece of water infrastructure in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1922 |
Dam Length |
3700 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
984 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
1.6 |
Nid Storage |
14000 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Crawford City Park
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Fort Robinson State Park
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Roberts Tract Campground
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Whitney Dam 1