Trenton Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Trenton, located in Hitchcock County, Nebraska, is a federal-owned irrigation structure on the Republican River managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 100 feet, with a hydraulic height of 92 feet and a structural height of 144 feet. It has a storage capacity of 354,901 acre-feet and serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a normal storage capacity of 112,214 acre-feet.

The dam spans a length of 8,600 feet and covers a surface area of 7,940 acres, with a drainage area of 2,961 square miles. Its maximum discharge capacity is 126,000 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial water resource for the region. With a high hazard potential, Trenton is regulated by the NE DNR and undergoes regular inspections by the Bureau of Reclamation to ensure its safety and functionality.

Trenton plays a critical role in managing water resources and supporting agricultural activities in the area. Its strategic location on the Republican River, combined with its significant storage capacity, highlights its importance in maintaining water security and promoting sustainable irrigation practices in Nebraska. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Trenton a fascinating example of federal infrastructure contributing to the resilience and prosperity of the region.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

8600

Dam Height

100

River Or Stream

REPUBLICAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7940

Hydraulic Height

92

Drainage Area

2961

Nid Storage

354901

Structural Height

144

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

144
       
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.