Patterson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Patterson Dam, located in Buffalo County, Nebraska, serves as a vital infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the TR-Wood River.
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Summary
Completed in 1937, this Earth-type dam stands at 23 feet tall and spans 315 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 167.4 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential water-related disasters.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Patterson Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition assessment, the dam provides essential flood protection for the residents of Gibbon and the wider region. With a drainage area of 0.42 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 27 acre-feet, Patterson Dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the area.
As a key component of the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Patterson Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local and federal agencies in safeguarding communities against flooding events. With a rich history of service dating back to the 1930s, this dam continues to be a vital asset for water resource management and climate resilience in Nebraska, showcasing the importance of proactive infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of natural disasters.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
315 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WOOD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
0.42 |
Nid Storage |
167.4 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River Near Kearney
|
928cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1280cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1390cfs |
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Union Pacific State Rec Area
|
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Fort Kearny State Rec Area
|
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Sandy Channel State Rec Area
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Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area
|
Patterson Dam
Cottonmill