Drake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Peterson Dam 3552 Lueking West Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Drake Dam, located in Harlan, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1951, this earth dam stands at a height of 13.8 feet and has a storage capacity of 102.3 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 31.9 acre-feet. Serving as a critical water resource for the area, the dam spans 520 feet in length and covers a surface area of 13.4 acres.
Managed by the NE Department of Natural Resources, Drake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2019 was rated as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential structural improvements. With a drainage area of 8.42 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 388 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
As a key component of the local water management infrastructure, Drake Dam not only provides essential water resources for fire protection and livestock but also serves as a recreational spot for small-scale fishing activities. With ongoing inspections and monitoring in place, efforts are being made to address the dam's poor condition and ensure its continued operation and safety for both the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
520 |
Dam Height |
13.8 |
River Or Stream |
FOSTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
13.8 |
Drainage Area |
8.42 |
Nid Storage |
102.3 |
Structural Height |
13.8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Republican River Near Orleans
|
59cfs |
Sappa Creek Near Stamford
|
4cfs |
Prairie Dog C Nr Woodruff
|
0cfs |
Beaver Creek Near Beaver City
|
1cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1040cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1190cfs |
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.
Drake Dam