Brandt Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brandt Dam, located in Lancaster County, Nebraska, is a private earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS to primarily reduce flood risks along the TR-CARDWELL BR SALT CREEK.


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Summary

Completed in 1977, this structure stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 580 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently assessed as poor, indicating the need for maintenance and potential improvements to ensure its effectiveness in flood control.

The dam is regulated and inspected by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, with state jurisdiction and permitting in place. However, the dam's poor condition raises concerns about its long-term reliability in flood risk reduction. With a maximum discharge capacity of 82 cubic feet per second, the Brandt Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding events. Efforts to improve its condition and ensure its structural integrity will be essential for maintaining its effectiveness in water resource management and climate resilience.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of infrastructure like the Brandt Dam in mitigating flood risks and protecting communities is vital. By advocating for proper maintenance, inspections, and potential upgrades to enhance its functionality, we can contribute to the overall resilience of our water systems and support sustainable management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions. Let's stay informed and engaged in the upkeep of crucial structures like the Brandt Dam to safeguard our water resources and communities for generations to come.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-CARDWELL BR SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

62

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.