Skalka Dam 1590 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lambie Dam Harms Skalka Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Skalka Dam 1590, located in Clay County, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a storage capacity of 87 acre-feet. With a surface area of 6 acres and a drainage area of 0.7 square miles, Skalka Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, particularly for agricultural irrigation.
Managed and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Skalka Dam 1590 has a low hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 450 cubic feet per second, ensuring efficient water flow management during peak periods. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam is well-maintained to meet safety standards and serve its intended purpose effectively.
As part of the Omaha District, Skalka Dam 1590 is a key component of the local water infrastructure, providing essential irrigation support to the surrounding area. With a history of successful operation and maintenance, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring reliable access to water for agricultural activities in the region.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
520 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
87 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Skalka Dam 1590