Upper Big Nemaha J-36 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Upper Big Nemaha J-36 is a local government-owned earth dam located in Johnson, Nebraska, along the TR-MID BR Big Nemaha River.
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Summary
Constructed in 1983 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at 35 feet tall and spans 599 feet in length, providing flood risk reduction and other essential purposes. With a normal storage capacity of 32 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.5 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Upper Big Nemaha J-36 has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in June 2016. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 378 cubic feet per second and is designed with stone core and soil foundation. Its location in Sterling, Nebraska, makes it a vital infrastructure for the community's safety and resilience against potential flooding events. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the significance of this structure in protecting the local environment and residents.
Overall, Upper Big Nemaha J-36 serves as a critical piece of infrastructure in the region, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community by mitigating flood risks and managing water resources effectively. With its construction overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and its regulation by the Nebraska DNR, this dam embodies a collaborative effort to safeguard the environment and maintain the integrity of the surrounding ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of structures like Upper Big Nemaha J-36 in sustainable water management practices cannot be overstated.
Year Completed |
1983 |
Dam Length |
599 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MID BR BIG NEMAHA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
130 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Upper Big Nemaha J-36