Lemmer East Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lemmer South Dam Lemmer North Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Lemmer East Dam, located in Overton, Nebraska, stands as a vital water resource structure with a primary purpose of serving as a fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1945, this earth dam boasts a height of 13.7 feet and a length of 176 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 70.4 acre-feet and a normal storage of 31.3 acre-feet. Situated along the TR-W Buffalo Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water levels and supporting various water-related activities in Dawson County.
Managed by a private entity, Lemmer East Dam falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. Despite being classified with a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam's significance in water management and safety cannot be understated. With a drainage area of 1.33 square miles and a surface area of 6.54 acres, the dam's impact extends beyond its physical structure to the surrounding ecosystem and community.
With a rich history dating back to the mid-20th century, Lemmer East Dam serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of water resource infrastructure in Nebraska. As a focal point for water storage and management, the dam contributes to the sustainable utilization of water resources for agricultural, recreational, and ecological purposes in the region. Its strategic location, design features, and operational efficiency make it a noteworthy landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems in the Great Plains.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
176 |
Dam Height |
13.7 |
River Or Stream |
TR-W BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.54 |
Hydraulic Height |
13.7 |
Drainage Area |
1.33 |
Nid Storage |
70.4 |
Structural Height |
13.7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1870cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1370cfs |
South Platte River At North Platte
|
1290cfs |
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.
Lemmer East Dam