Dobesh Swanson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Herpolsheimer Dam Kratochvil Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Located in Seward, Nebraska, the Dobesh Swanson Dam is a vital water resource structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1965.
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Summary
This earth-type dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 696 feet along the TR-Lincoln Creek, providing flood risk reduction and other essential purposes for the local community. With a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet and a low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in water management in the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the Dobesh Swanson Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the latest assessment conducted in May 2017. Despite not being condition-rated, the dam has an inspection frequency of 5 years and is considered to have low risk potential. With its strategic location and functional design, the dam serves as a reliable infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices in Nebraska.
Overall, the Dobesh Swanson Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management in Seward County, demonstrating the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and the USDA NRCS. As a critical structure along the TR-Lincoln Creek, the dam provides essential flood risk reduction and contributes to the overall water management system in the area. With its low hazard potential and state-regulated status, the Dobesh Swanson Dam represents a model for sustainable infrastructure development in the region, catering to the needs of both the local community and environmental enthusiasts alike.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
696 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LINCOLN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
84 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Dobesh Swanson Dam