Dahlheimer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Dahlheimer Dam, located in Dawes County, Nebraska, was completed in 1960 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

This private earth dam has a height of 12 feet and a length of 456 feet, with a storage capacity of 85.8 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.15 square miles. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not yet rated for condition assessment, Dahlheimer Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management for the area. With a normal storage capacity of 58.3 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 70 cubic feet per second, the dam helps control water flow in the Big Cottonwood Creek. Its strategic location and design make it a valuable asset for maintaining water quality, supporting agriculture, and preserving the local ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water resources, dams like Dahlheimer will play an increasingly important role in sustainable water management practices.

As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is essential to recognize the significance of infrastructure like Dahlheimer Dam in adapting to changing environmental conditions. By staying informed about its operation, maintenance, and regulatory oversight, stakeholders can contribute to the resilience of water systems in the region. The dam's role in providing essential services while mitigating risks underscores the importance of proactive measures to address the challenges posed by climate variability and ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources in Nebraska.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

456

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-BIG COTTONWOOD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25.1

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

2.15

Nid Storage

85.8

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.