Cub Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pine Canyon Dam Worth Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Cub Creek Dam, located in Niobrara, Nebraska, is a local government-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at a height of 59 feet and serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a storage capacity of 1,749 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the scenic Cub Creek and covers a surface area of 31 acres, providing a peaceful retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Cub Creek Dam is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. With a significant hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of March 2018, the dam is equipped with emergency action plans to mitigate risks and ensure public safety in case of emergencies. Its location in Keya Paha County offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the heart of the Midwest.
As part of the St. Paul District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, Cub Creek Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of federal, state, and local agencies in managing water resources for both recreational and environmental purposes. Its presence along the Cub Creek stream not only enhances the natural landscape but also serves as a valuable asset for studying the impact of climate change on water infrastructure in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cub Creek Dam offers a fascinating case study in sustainable dam management and resilience planning.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
1950 |
Dam Height |
59 |
River Or Stream |
CUB CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
31 |
Hydraulic Height |
57 |
Drainage Area |
5.2 |
Nid Storage |
1749 |
Structural Height |
59 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
59 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
188cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Niobrara River Near Sparks
|
934cfs |
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1530cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
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.
Cub Creek Dam