Morris Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Morris Dam, located in Dawes, Nebraska, was completed in 1961 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a crucial irrigation structure in the region.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam is primarily designed for irrigation purposes, with a height of 24 feet and a length of 742 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 137 acre-feet and normal storage of 65 acre-feet, providing water for agricultural needs in the area.

Despite its importance for irrigation, Morris Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential according to the latest inspection in June 2018. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is located on the TR-WHITE RIVER and is under the jurisdiction of the state, with a distance of 61 miles from INTERIOR SD. Its condition and maintenance are crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and support in order to preserve its role in providing water for agriculture in the region.

Morris Dam, with its earth dam type and stone core, plays a vital role in water management in the region, supporting agriculture and providing a source of water for the surrounding area. While it faces challenges in terms of its current condition, the dam remains a key infrastructure for water resource enthusiasts to keep an eye on and support in order to ensure its continued functionality and contribution to the local water supply. Its location, design, and purpose make it an important feature for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

742

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-WHITE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

1.2

Nid Storage

137

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.