Baldwin Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Baldwin Reservoir Dam, located in Dawes County, Nebraska, is a key structure used for irrigation purposes in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1936, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches over 1500 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 592 acre-feet, the dam serves to provide water for agricultural activities in the area, with a normal storage level of 332 acre-feet.

Despite its importance for irrigation, the Baldwin Reservoir Dam is currently rated as having a poor condition assessment, with a low hazard potential. The last inspection conducted in 2016 highlighted the need for improvements to ensure the safety and efficiency of the structure. The dam is under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to maintain its integrity.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Baldwin Reservoir Dam represents a critical piece of infrastructure supporting agricultural activities in the region. With its unique design and historical significance, efforts to improve its condition and safety are essential to ensure sustainable water management for the future. The collaboration between state agencies and local government in overseeing and regulating the dam underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to safeguard water resources in the area.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

N SIDE CANAL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

46

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

592

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.