Knapple Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jk Land Dam Buffalo Creek F-1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Knapple Dam, located in Dawson County, Nebraska, is a privately owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1960.
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Summary
This dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and other water resource management functions. Standing at a height of 12.9 feet and with a length of 395 feet, Knapple Dam has a storage capacity of 146.9 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2.6 acres.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Knapple Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. While it has not been modified in recent years, regular inspections are conducted every 10 years to monitor its condition and address any potential risks.
Situated along the Buffalo Creek, Knapple Dam contributes to the overall water management system in the region and helps mitigate flood risks. With its strategic location and design, this dam underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing climates and environmental challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Knapple Dam exemplifies the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship in ensuring the resilience of water systems for future generations.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
395 |
Dam Height |
12.9 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.9 |
Drainage Area |
3.48 |
Nid Storage |
146.9 |
Structural Height |
12.9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1390cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1280cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
928cfs |
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.
Knapple Dam