Ehrke Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Ehrke Dam, located in Stamford, Nebraska, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and a small fish pond.


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Summary

Constructed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a length of 281 feet. With a storage capacity of 105.5 acre-feet, the dam primarily regulates the flow of TR-Sappa Creek to provide water for various uses in the area.

Managed by a private owner, Ehrke Dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of August 2018, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management within Furnas County, Nebraska. Its location within the NWS26T1R21W area and proximity to the Congressional District 03 further highlight its significance in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Ehrke Dam as a key feature in the local landscape, contributing to both water supply and environmental sustainability. The dam's ability to store water for various purposes, in addition to its role in regulating flow and preventing flooding, underscores its importance in maintaining a balance between human needs and ecological concerns. As a privately owned structure with state regulation and oversight, Ehrke Dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts needed to manage water resources effectively in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

281

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR-SAPPA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.1

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

1.4

Nid Storage

105.5

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.