Pilster Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Blust Dam Baldwin Reservoir Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Dawes County, Nebraska, the Pilster Dam stands as a testament to the intricate balance between human engineering and environmental preservation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1937, this private dam primarily serves the purpose of irrigation, with a height of 22 feet and a length spanning 680 feet. With a storage capacity of 722.1 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 362.5 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the water resources in the region, covering a surface area of 58 acres and draining an area of 14.08 square miles.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the Pilster Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, the dam undergoes regular inspections every five years, with the last assessment conducted in August 2019. The dam's hydraulic modifications in 2001 further enhance its functionality, contributing to the efficient management of water flow and distribution for agricultural purposes in the area.
As a vital component of the local water infrastructure, Pilster Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining a sustainable water supply for irrigation purposes in Dawes County. Situated along Dry Creek, the dam's strategic location and design reflect a harmonious blend of engineering expertise and environmental stewardship. With its rich history and ongoing commitment to safety and efficiency, Pilster Dam continues to be a cornerstone of water resource management and climate resilience in the region, exemplifying the intricate interplay between human ingenuity and ecological sustainability.
Years Modified |
2001 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
680 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
DRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
58 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
14.08 |
Nid Storage |
722.1 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Pilster Dam