D & B Ranch Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ex-1-84 Dam Singleton Dam 1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Kimball, Nebraska, the D & B Ranch Dam stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction, with a primary purpose of safeguarding the surrounding area from potential inundation.
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Summary
Constructed in 1980 by the USDA NRCS under the design of Leland Jackson, this private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet, with a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a structural height of 26 feet. The dam boasts a length of 850 feet and a storage capacity of 251 acre-feet, providing vital protection to the region's 2.4 square mile drainage area.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the D & B Ranch Dam has been deemed in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in November 2017, with a reassuring inspection frequency of every 5 years. The dam's location along the TR-Lawrence Fork river ensures that it serves a critical role in maintaining the safety and integrity of the surrounding Broadwater community. With a maximum discharge capacity of 264 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle significant water flow during periods of heightened risk, showcasing its essential contribution to water resource management in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the D & B Ranch Dam stands as a vital structure in the ongoing battle against flooding in the Kimball, Nebraska area. With its origins tracing back to the 1980s and its efficient design by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam not only provides essential flood risk reduction but also symbolizes the importance of proactive infrastructure in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events. As a privately owned and state-regulated entity, the dam's role in water management is crucial, with its storage capacity, drainage area coverage, and structural integrity all contributing to its significance in the region's water resource landscape.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LAWRENCE FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
2.4 |
Nid Storage |
251 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
D & B Ranch Dam