Bartels Dam 2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bartels Dam 2, located in Elk Creek, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1978, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 78 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-N FK BIG NEMAHA RIVER, the dam is under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential, Bartels Dam 2 has been assessed to be in poor condition as of June 2012. The dam's emergency action plan is either not prepared or has not been updated, raising concerns about its ability to handle potential risks and emergencies effectively. With a history of state permitting and inspection, there is a need for improved maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential water resource infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bartels Dam 2 serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship. With its location in Johnson County, Nebraska, this dam plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities through irrigation while also highlighting the importance of regular maintenance, risk assessment, and emergency preparedness for sustainable water resource management. As discussions around climate change and water scarcity continue to evolve, the condition and management of dams like Bartels Dam 2 become crucial aspects of ensuring water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
78 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-N FK BIG NEMAHA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
0.07 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Big Nemaha River At Humboldt
|
67cfs |
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
Turkey C Nr Seneca
|
15cfs |
Big Blue R At Barneston Nebr
|
131cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
22500cfs |
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
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.
Bartels Dam 2