Sherman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Sherman Dam, located in Sherman, Nebraska, is a critical water resource infrastructure owned by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

Built in 1962 by the Bureau of Reclamation, Sherman Dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 125,477 acre-feet and a drainage area of 37 square miles. The dam stands at 98 feet in height and spans 4,450 feet in length, with a hydraulic height of 90 feet and a structural height of 134 feet.

With a maximum discharge capacity of 1,100 cubic feet per second, Sherman Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, particularly for agricultural irrigation. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in April 2020. The dam's emergency action plan is up to date, ensuring preparedness in case of any unforeseen events. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sherman Dam stands as a significant structure contributing to the sustainable management of water in Nebraska.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

4450

Dam Height

98

River Or Stream

OAK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2868

Hydraulic Height

90

Drainage Area

37

Nid Storage

125477

Structural Height

134

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

134
       
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.