Mcmeekin Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Betson Ranch Dam Boardgate (Nid)
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Mcmeekin Dam, located in Dawes, Nebraska, is a privately-owned irrigation dam constructed in 1953 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 29 feet, providing essential water resources for agricultural purposes in the region. With a storage capacity of 197 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2400 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Mcmeekin Dam has been found to have a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition as per the last inspection conducted in August 2019. The dam covers a drainage area of 4.5 square miles and has a surface area of 17 acres, serving as a vital water source for the surrounding agricultural lands. With its earth dam type and stone core, Mcmeekin Dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Despite its private ownership, Mcmeekin Dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between government agencies and private entities in ensuring the safe and efficient utilization of water resources for irrigation purposes. As climate change continues to impact water availability, dams like Mcmeekin play a critical role in safeguarding water security for agricultural communities, highlighting the importance of proactive maintenance and regulation to mitigate risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
588 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
LONE TREE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
4.5 |
Nid Storage |
197 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Mcmeekin Dam