Boxelder Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Boxelder Canyon in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a key water resource managed by a public utility for hydroelectric and irrigation purposes.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1941, is an earth structure standing at 35 feet high and spanning 585 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water management for the surrounding area, covering a drainage area of 23.6 square miles.

Located on the Supply Canal, Boxelder Canyon is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a high risk level, reflecting the importance of consistent monitoring and risk management measures. With a maximum discharge capacity of 5810 cubic feet per second, the dam is designed to withstand potential challenges and ensure water resource sustainability for the region.

Water and climate enthusiasts will find Boxelder Canyon a significant site for studying water resource management, dam infrastructure, and the intersection of hydroelectric power generation and irrigation. The dam's historical significance, engineering design, and regulatory oversight provide a rich backdrop for exploring the complexities of maintaining critical water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions and growing water demands.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

585

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

Supply Canal

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

23.6

Nid Storage

350

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.