Harlan County Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Harlan County Dam, also known as Harlan County Lake, is a gravity-type dam located in Naponee, Nebraska on the Republican River.


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Summary

Completed in 1952 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction while also supporting fish and wildlife habitats, irrigation, recreation, and water supply. With a hydraulic height of 105 feet and a structural height of 107 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 825,700 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 13,600 acres.

The dam's spillway, with a controlled design and width of 856 feet, helps manage water levels during high flow events. Despite being classified with a high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected, and emergency action plans are in place to address any safety concerns. The USACE implements risk management measures to monitor the dam's condition, prioritize maintenance activities, and collaborate with local emergency managers to ensure preparedness for potential emergencies. As a vital infrastructure for flood protection in the region, Harlan County Dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the risks associated with severe weather events and water management challenges.

Overall, Harlan County Dam stands as a critical asset in the effort to mitigate flood risks and ensure water resource sustainability in the area. With ongoing monitoring and proactive risk management strategies in place, the dam continues to be a key component in the region's resilience against potential threats, highlighting the importance of effective dam infrastructure management in maintaining the safety and well-being of surrounding communities and environments.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

11827

River Or Stream

REPUBLICAN

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

13600

Hydraulic Height

105

Drainage Area

7636

Nid Storage

825700

Structural Height

107

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

107
       
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.