Vandenberg Dam 1603 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Vandenberg Dam 1603, located in Butler County, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and stretches 530 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 66.9 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 50.6 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Plum Creek and falls under the regulatory oversight of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Vandenberg Dam 1603 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 130 cubic feet per second and covers a surface area of 8.4 acres, serving the surrounding area for agricultural irrigation needs. The dam is inspected every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety compliance.

As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, Vandenberg Dam 1603 contributes to the sustainable water management practices in Nebraska. With its modest size and low hazard potential, the dam provides essential irrigation support while maintaining a safe and reliable water supply for the community. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the role of Vandenberg Dam 1603 in balancing water needs and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR-PLUM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.4

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

66.9

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.