Harper Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Farnam Dam Fisher Dam 4067
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Harper Dam, located in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure built in 1936 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR-PLUM CREEK.
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Summary
With a dam height of 13 feet and a length of 443 feet, Harper Dam has a storage capacity of 165 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 44 acre-feet. The dam's low hazard potential and fair condition assessment make it a crucial asset for managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Harper Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam is situated within the Kansas City District and falls under Congressional District 03, represented by Adrian Smith. Despite its low hazard potential, Harper Dam plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding area from potential water-related disasters.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Harper Dam's design, purpose, and operational details fascinating. With its strategic location, efficient flood risk reduction capabilities, and state-regulated maintenance practices, Harper Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
443 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PLUM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
1.3 |
Nid Storage |
165 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Harper Dam