Jacobs Waste Treatment Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Howard, Nebraska, the Jacobs Waste Treatment Dam is a key irrigation structure designed by the USDA NRCS in 1978.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans 586 feet, providing vital water resources for agricultural purposes in the region. With a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.3 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and maximizing irrigation efficiency along the TR-Turkey Creek.

Despite its importance, the Jacobs Waste Treatment Dam has been rated as having a poor condition during its last inspection in June 2019. With a low hazard potential, the dam's structural integrity and maintenance require attention to ensure its continued functionality and safety. As a regulated facility under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, ongoing inspections, enforcement, and permitting are in place to address any potential risks and ensure compliance with state regulations.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Jacobs Waste Treatment Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, agriculture, and environmental stewardship. By recognizing the significance of this dam in supporting irrigation needs while also addressing maintenance challenges, stakeholders can work towards sustainable water management practices that benefit both local communities and the surrounding ecosystem.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

586

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-TURKEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.