Upper Big Nemaha J-44 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Upper Big Nemaha J-44 is a local government-owned earth dam located in Johnson, Nebraska, along the TR-N FK BIG NEMAHA RIVER.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1982 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a length of 887 feet, providing flood risk reduction and other purposes for the area. With a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.5 square miles, the dam has a low hazard potential and is inspected every five years, with the last assessment in June 2016 deeming its condition as satisfactory.
Managed by the NE DNR, Upper Big Nemaha J-44 is designed to regulate the flow of water and reduce the risk of flooding in the region. The dam's stone core and soil foundation contribute to its structural integrity, while its emergency action plan readiness and risk assessment measures remain unspecified. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the community and surrounding areas from potential water-related disasters. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the dam's impact on the local ecosystem and its contribution to overall water management strategies in the region.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
887 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
TR-N FK BIG NEMAHA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
129 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Upper Big Nemaha J-44