Harvey Dam 1886, located in Buffalo County, Nebraska, is a privately owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction. Completed in 1969, this 16-foot high structure spans 600 feet and has a storage capacity of 204 acre-feet. Situated on Turkey Creek, the dam serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flood events, with a low hazard potential and poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in 2019.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safe operation. Despite its age, the dam's primary purpose remains flood risk reduction, with a design that incorporates stone core and soil foundation. The dam's location in Kearney, Nebraska, makes it a crucial asset in managing water resources and climate-related risks in the region.

While Harvey Dam 1886 may face challenges with its current condition assessment, ongoing state oversight and inspection aim to address any safety concerns and ensure the dam's effectiveness in mitigating flood risks. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of structures like Harvey Dam in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against extreme weather events is vital for promoting sustainable water management practices in the face of a changing climate.