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