Nothnagel Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nothnagel Dam 1, located in Red Willow County, Nebraska, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the TR-BRUSHY CREEK.


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Summary

Completed in 1939, this earth dam stands at a height of 29.4 feet and has a storage capacity of 79.5 acre-feet. Despite its significant role in mitigating flood risks, the dam is currently in poor condition and requires regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the NE DNR, Nothnagel Dam 1 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flood hazards. With a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment indicates that maintenance and rehabilitation efforts may be needed to address the existing structural issues. As a key component of the flood risk reduction infrastructure in the region, the dam's importance in safeguarding communities and properties cannot be overstated.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Nothnagel Dam 1 in the context of flood risk reduction and water management in Nebraska is essential. With a history dating back to the late 1930s, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for sustainable water infrastructure development and maintenance to ensure the safety and resilience of communities in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water-related challenges.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

29.4

River Or Stream

TR-BRUSHY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

29.4

Drainage Area

1.64

Nid Storage

79.5

Structural Height

29.4

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.