Topliff Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Topliff Dam, located in Cass County, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Built in 1978 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 29.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 57.7 acre-feet. The dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, particularly in the Coal Creek watershed.
Despite its importance, Topliff Dam has been rated as having a low hazard potential and poor condition, as per the last inspection in April 2019. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. Water and climate enthusiasts interested in the management of water resources in the region can appreciate the role that Topliff Dam plays in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding community from potential water-related disasters.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
29.5 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COAL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
29.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
57.7 |
Structural Height |
29.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
Platte R At Louisville Ne
|
5580cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
22500cfs |
West Nishnabotna River At Randolph
|
532cfs |
Platte R Nr Ashland
|
6290cfs |
Nishnabotna River Above Hamburg
|
1350cfs |
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.
Topliff Dam