Sherman Dam 1437 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Sherman Dam 1437, located in Dawson County, Nebraska, stands as a testament to water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Built in 1950 with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, this private-owned earth dam spans 288 feet in length and reaches a height of 10.6 feet. With a storage capacity of 88.2 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.25 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Despite its important function, Sherman Dam 1437 is currently classified as having a low hazard potential and poor condition assessment, as of the last inspection in November 2017. It is regulated and inspected by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, highlighting the state's commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of its water infrastructure. While the dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment measures are currently unavailable, its presence and maintenance serve as a vital component in the broader efforts to mitigate water-related risks in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the story of Sherman Dam 1437 offers insight into the intricate balance between human intervention and nature's forces. With its modest size and capacity, this dam exemplifies the importance of local infrastructure in safeguarding communities against potential water-related disasters. As we continue to face the challenges of a changing climate, the maintenance and improvement of structures like Sherman Dam 1437 will be essential in ensuring the resilience of our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

288

Dam Height

10.6

River Or Stream

TR-DAWSON COUNTY CANAL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13.22

Hydraulic Height

10.6

Drainage Area

2.25

Nid Storage

88.2

Structural Height

10.6

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

11
       
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.