Little Plum Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Little Plum Creek, located in Lexington, Nebraska, is a public utility dam primarily used for hydroelectric power generation and irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1941, this earth dam stands at 8 feet tall and stretches over 884 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 5164 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

With a low hazard potential but high risk assessment rating, Little Plum Creek serves as a vital water resource in the region. The dam's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Available," highlighting the need for more frequent inspections and risk management measures to address potential safety concerns. Although no spillway is present, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation and supporting the local ecosystem.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and assess structures like Little Plum Creek to ensure proper maintenance and mitigate any potential risks. By staying informed about its condition and regulatory oversight, we can work towards sustainable water management practices that uphold safety standards and protect the surrounding environment for future generations.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

884

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Supply Canal

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

252

Nid Storage

5164

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

8
       
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.