Shackelford Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shackelford Dam, located in Hitchcock, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure built in 1960 on the TR-Frenchman River for purposes of fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

The dam, primarily constructed of earth with buttress and stone core types, stands at a height of 16.6 feet and spans a length of 350 feet. With a storage capacity of 61.3 acre-feet, the dam serves a drainage area of 6.9 square miles and has a normal storage level of 28.1 acre-feet.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Shackelford Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition following its last inspection in June 2011. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment information are currently unavailable. Despite its minimal hazard potential, the dam's function as a vital resource for fire protection and livestock support highlights its importance within the local ecosystem.

Situated within Congressional District 03 of Nebraska, Shackelford Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. With its ability to store water for various purposes, the dam serves as a valuable asset for the community while also contributing to the environmental sustainability of the area. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate change, monitoring the condition and functionality of structures like Shackelford Dam is essential for ensuring the continued availability and conservation of water resources in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

16.6

River Or Stream

TR-FRENCHMAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

16.6

Drainage Area

6.9

Nid Storage

61.3

Structural Height

16.6

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.