Essmeger Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wendland Dam Robinson Dam 1715
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Essmeger Dam, located in Gosper County, Nebraska, stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Built in 1958 by the USDA NRCS, this private-owned earth dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance. With a modest height of 17 feet and a length of 290 feet, Essmeger Dam has a storage capacity of 97 acre-feet, providing crucial water supply for the surrounding area.
Despite its age, Essmeger Dam continues to play a vital role in water management in the region. However, recent assessments have identified the dam's condition as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its long-term functionality. The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, but regular inspections by NE DNR and a 5-year inspection frequency help mitigate any risks associated with its operation.
Ensuring the safety and effectiveness of Essmeger Dam is crucial for both water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates. By investing in its maintenance and upkeep, stakeholders can continue to benefit from its services for fire protection, stock watering, and ecological preservation. With proper management and support, Essmeger Dam will stand as a resilient example of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
290 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ELK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
6.1 |
Nid Storage |
97 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Essmeger Dam