Olson Dam 1270 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nielsen Dam 3823 Nelson Dam 431
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Olson Dam 1270 is a privately owned structure located in Kearney, Nebraska, along the Little Blue River.
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Summary
Built in 1973 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 27 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 107 acre-feet, primarily used for irrigation purposes. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Olson Dam 1270 undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's hydraulic height of 25 feet and drainage area of 0.5 square miles contribute to its effective flood control and water supply functions. Additionally, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 480 cubic feet per second, making it a vital component of the local water infrastructure.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, dams like Olson Dam 1270 play a critical role in mitigating the effects of extreme weather events and ensuring a stable water supply for agricultural irrigation. With proper maintenance and oversight from state regulatory agencies, this dam remains a key asset for managing water resources in the region and supporting sustainable agriculture practices.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
107 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River Near Kearney
|
1810cfs |
Republican River Near Orleans
|
59cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1190cfs |
Republican River At Guide Rock
|
35cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Sappa Creek Near Stamford
|
4cfs |
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.
Olson Dam 1270