Parsons Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Spring Creek Dam 1118 Schaefer Dam 1
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
Parsons Dam, located in Sioux County, Nebraska, stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction measures.
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Summary
Constructed in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam with a height of 16 feet and a length of 410 feet serves a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. It holds a normal storage capacity of 46 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres, providing crucial protection to the surrounding area.
Managed by a private owner and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Parsons Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in January 2012. With a drainage area of 3.1 square miles and a maximum discharge of 170 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in safeguarding the TR-Niobrara River and its downstream communities. Its strategic location and design make it a critical infrastructure for water resource and climate management in the region.
Despite its unassuming appearance, Parsons Dam plays a significant role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water security in the area. With its construction overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and its state-regulated operations, the dam stands as a reliable barrier against potential disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of structures like Parsons Dam is essential for appreciating the intersection of human intervention and natural elements in safeguarding our environment.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
410 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NIOBRARA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
3.1 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Parsons Dam