Blanke Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sidney East Dam Sidney West Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Blanke Dam, located in Sidney, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS to regulate the flow of TR-LODGEPOLE CREEK for flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Constructed in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 21.2 feet and has a storage capacity of 203.6 acre-feet, with a drainage area of 3.27 square miles. Despite being regulated by the NE DNR and meeting state inspection and enforcement requirements, the dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition and has a low hazard potential.
The dam's primary purpose of flood risk reduction is vital for protecting the surrounding Cheyenne County area from potential flooding events. However, with a poor condition assessment and no recent updates to emergency action plans or risk management measures, there is a need for increased attention to ensure the safety and effectiveness of Blanke Dam. Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find this structure an intriguing case study for the intersection of environmental conservation, infrastructure maintenance, and community resilience in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
318 |
Dam Height |
21.2 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LODGEPOLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
21.2 |
Drainage Area |
3.27 |
Nid Storage |
203.6 |
Structural Height |
21.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Platte River Near Crook
|
166cfs |
S. Platte R. At Julesburg
|
-999cfs |
Lodgepole Creek At Bushnell
|
2cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Blanke Dam