Overturf Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Shuck Dam Benson Brothers Dam
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
Overturf Dam, located in Clay County, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1975 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a length of 418 feet. It holds a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and serves the surrounding area with a normal storage volume of 21 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition as of the last inspection in May 2019.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Overturf Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement. Its location along TR-W Little Sandy Creek contributes to a drainage area of 0.3 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 71 cubic feet per second. With a surface area of 5 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in the local water resource management system and supports agricultural activities in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the design, purpose, and condition of Overturf Dam sheds light on the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for the community's well-being and environmental resilience.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
418 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-W LITTLE SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Overturf Dam