Larson Dam 1626 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Larson Dam 1626, located in Hamilton County, Nebraska, is a pivotal structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the TR-BIG BLUE RIVER.


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Summary

Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet with a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 26 feet. With a capacity of 463 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.1 square miles, Larson Dam 1626 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding.

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Larson Dam 1626 has a low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2017. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, and it has a normal storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Despite its age, Larson Dam 1626 continues to serve its intended function effectively, showcasing the importance of well-maintained infrastructure in mitigating the impact of climate-related challenges on communities.

With a maximum discharge capacity of 679 cubic feet per second and a surface area of 15 acres, Larson Dam 1626 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local and federal agencies in safeguarding water resources and enhancing climate resilience. Its strategic location along the Big Blue River, coupled with regular inspections and state enforcement, underscores the commitment to maintaining the dam's integrity and ensuring the safety of nearby residents. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Larson Dam 1626 lies not just in its structural design, but also in its vital role in safeguarding the environment and promoting sustainable water management practices in the face of changing weather patterns.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

1469

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-BIG BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

2.1

Nid Storage

463

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds