Larsen Schwartzlander Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Larsen Schwartzlander Dam, located in Valley, Nebraska, is a key structure managed by the local government for flood risk reduction along the TR-North Loup River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1979 by Leland Jackson of the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet and spans 880 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet. The dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

With a satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2019, Larsen Schwartzlander Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding ELYRIA community. The dam's hydraulic height of 34 feet and maximum discharge capacity of 471 cubic feet per second provide vital flood control measures for the area. As a significant water resource infrastructure, the dam also serves as a testament to effective collaboration between local government entities and the USDA NRCS in safeguarding the region from potential water-related hazards.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Larsen Schwartzlander Dam stands out as a successful example of proactive infrastructure development in Nebraska. Its strategic location, design, and regulatory oversight highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating natural disasters and protecting communities in the face of changing climatic conditions. This dam serves as a beacon of resilience and cooperation in addressing the challenges of water resource management and climate adaptation in the region.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

880

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH LOUP RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

4.5

Nid Storage

125

Structural Height

36

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

36
       
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.