Bluestem Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bluestem Dam, also known as Bluestem Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Lancaster County, Nebraska.


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Summary

Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 46 feet and a structural height of 48 feet, with a total dam length of 2,760 feet. The primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, with additional recreational benefits for the surrounding area.

With a high hazard potential, the dam is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, who continuously monitor its condition and implement risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community. The dam has a storage capacity of 17,550 acre-feet and a normal storage of 3,020 acre-feet, with a surface area of 325 acres and a drainage area of 17 square miles. In the event of severe weather events or increased water levels, the dam may release water to manage levels upstream or downstream, with a spillway width of 340 feet.

Overall, Bluestem Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region, with ongoing efforts to maintain its integrity and safety. The US Army Corps of Engineers works diligently to address all types of flood risks associated with the dam, ensuring that emergency action plans are regularly updated and that the surrounding community is prepared to respond in the event of a dam-related emergency.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

2760

River Or Stream

OLIVE BRANCH SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

325

Hydraulic Height

46

Drainage Area

17

Nid Storage

17550

Structural Height

48

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

48
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.