Raasch Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Skyview Lake Dam Uecker Dam 1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Raasch Dam, located in Norfolk, Nebraska, is a vital structure managed by the local government to mitigate flood risks along the TR-N FK ELKHORN RIVER.
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Summary
Built in 1977 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 625 feet, providing crucial flood risk reduction benefits to the surrounding area. With a maximum storage capacity of 384 acre-feet and a normal storage of 26 acre-feet, Raasch Dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Raasch Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in April 2020. As a key component of the flood risk reduction infrastructure in Madison County, Nebraska, Raasch Dam serves as a critical line of defense against potential flooding events, highlighting the importance of proactive water resource management and climate resilience measures in the region.
With its strategic location and design for flood risk reduction, Raasch Dam remains a crucial asset in the local government's efforts to safeguard communities and infrastructure from the impacts of extreme weather events. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resource management, the proper maintenance and monitoring of structures like Raasch Dam are essential in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of the region's water infrastructure in the face of evolving climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
625 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-N FK ELKHORN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
384 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elkhorn R At Norfolk Ne
|
440cfs |
North Fork Elkhorn River Near Pierce
|
96cfs |
Elkhorn River At Pilger
|
633cfs |
Logan Creek At Wakefield
|
149cfs |
Shell Creek Near Columbus
|
87cfs |
Elkhorn River At West Point
|
877cfs |
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.
Raasch Dam
Skyview Park - East Ramp