Deadman Draw Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Deadman Draw Dam, located in Sioux County, Nebraska, stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction measures implemented by private owners.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this earth dam, with a height of 42 feet and a length of 1640 feet, serves the primary purpose of protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding along the Deadman Draw stream. Managed and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the dam boasts a normal storage capacity of 75 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 880 acre-feet, ensuring sufficient water resource management during peak flow periods.

Designed by the Bureau of Reclamation and USDA NRCS, Deadman Draw Dam's structural integrity is regularly inspected and maintained, with the last assessment in September 2018 deeming its condition satisfactory. With a drainage area of 3.2 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 600 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the local community from potential water-related hazards. Despite its private ownership, the dam's strategic location and efficient operation contribute significantly to the overall water resource and climate resilience in the region, making it a vital asset for both flood control and water management efforts in Nebraska.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1640

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

DEADMAN DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

3.2

Nid Storage

880

Structural Height

58

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

58
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.