Exstrom Ohrt Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Exstrom Ohrt Dam, located in Harlan County, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Constructed in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 19 feet high and spans 260 feet in length. It is situated along the TR-ROPE CREEK, within the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, and is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with the last inspection conducted in July 2019. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 16.1 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 54.9 acre-feet, serving an area of 0.4 square miles. While there are no spillways or locks associated with the structure, it has a maximum discharge capacity of 175 cubic feet per second.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Exstrom Ohrt Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management and maintenance of irrigation infrastructure in rural Nebraska. Its location, design, and operational history offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with water resource development in the region. As discussions continue around sustainable water management practices and climate resilience, the condition and management of dams like Exstrom Ohrt Dam become increasingly relevant for ensuring the safety and efficiency of water supply systems.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR-ROPE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

54.9

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.