Heins Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Struebing Dam Dam 4-13-2e
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Heins Dam, located in Ulysses, Nebraska, is a privately-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS to primarily reduce flood risk in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 435 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 4.8 acres. Its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment make it a reliable asset for flood risk reduction in Butler County.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Heins Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safe operation and compliance with regulations. Its location along TR-Keysor Creek contributes to the drainage area of 0.25 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 86 cubic feet per second. With a solid foundation of soil and core made of stone, this structure serves as a vital component in the local water resource management system.
In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan, inundation maps, and risk assessment measures are crucial for preparedness and effective response. With a focus on mitigating flood risks and ensuring public safety, Heins Dam plays a significant role in protecting the surrounding community and preserving the delicate balance of water resources in the area.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
435 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-KEYSOR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
0.25 |
Nid Storage |
69 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clear Cr 1.75mi W Of Polk Co Line
|
15cfs |
Platte River Near Duncan
|
243cfs |
Shell Creek Near Columbus
|
87cfs |
Prairie Creek Nr Silver Creek Nebr
|
5cfs |
Silver Cr
|
2cfs |
Platte River At North Bend
|
4920cfs |
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.
Heins Dam