Wilber Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Wilber Dam 1, located in Wilber, Nebraska, is a crucial structure owned by the local government for flood risk reduction along the TR-Big Blue River.


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Summary

Completed in 1975, this earth dam stands at 22 feet high and spans 542 feet in length, offering a storage capacity of 127 acre-feet with a normal storage of 14 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 0.4 square miles and a maximum discharge capability of 875 cubic feet per second, Wilber Dam 1 plays a significant role in managing water flow in the region.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Wilber Dam 1 has a satisfactory condition assessment and a high hazard potential. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, and it undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a structural height of 22 feet and a hydraulic height of 21 feet, this vital infrastructure serves as a critical component in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential flooding events. Additionally, the dam's location within Saline County, Nebraska, highlights its importance in protecting the local area from water-related risks.

With its strategic design by Willard Meyer and oversight by the local government, Wilber Dam 1 stands as a testament to effective water resource management in Nebraska. Its role in flood risk reduction, coupled with regular inspections and satisfactory condition assessment, showcases its importance in preserving the safety and well-being of the community. As a key element in the region's water resource infrastructure, Wilber Dam 1 continues to play a vital role in mitigating potential flooding hazards and ensuring water security for residents in the area.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

542

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-BIG BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

127

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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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.