Druse Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Druse Dam, located in Nebraska's Frontier County near the town of Holbrook, stands as a testament to effective water resource management.


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Summary

Built in 1955 by the USDA NRCS, this private-owned earth dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond support. With a height of 21 feet and a length of 302 feet, Druse Dam has a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet and can handle a maximum discharge of 470 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Druse Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the TR-Deer Creek stream and supporting the local ecosystem. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the dam undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's location within a drainage area of 1.5 square miles underscores its significance in water conservation efforts and highlights its role in mitigating flood risks in the region.

Druse Dam's presence reflects a harmonious blend of environmental stewardship and practical resource utilization. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam exemplifies sustainable construction practices that prioritize long-term resilience. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like Druse Dam are vital for maintaining water security and supporting local communities. The collaboration between private ownership, government agencies, and conservation groups showcases a holistic approach to water management, ensuring the dam's continued effectiveness for years to come.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

302

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR-DEER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

1.5

Nid Storage

82

Structural Height

21

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.