Bailey Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bailey Dam, located in Gosper County, Nebraska, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risk along Turkey Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 290 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 99 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 16 acre-feet, Bailey Dam serves as a crucial tool for water resource management in the region.

Owned and regulated by the local government, Bailey Dam is subject to inspection, permitting, and enforcement by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources. Despite being classified as low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated as of June 2018. The dam's primary purpose goes beyond flood risk reduction, demonstrating its importance in supporting various water-related activities in the area.

With its strategic location and contribution to water supply and flood control, Bailey Dam plays a significant role in the overall water resource management efforts in Nebraska. As a key component of the state's infrastructure, this dam exemplifies the collaboration between government agencies and the local community in safeguarding water resources and addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

290

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-TURKEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

5.6

Nid Storage

99

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.