Mirage Flats Dam 2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mirage Flats Dam 3 Heaton Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Mirage Flats Dam 2, located in Valentine, Nebraska, is a local government-owned structure designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a hydraulic height of 27 feet. With a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet and a drainage area of 7.8 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Mirage Flats Dam 2 has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of its last inspection in October 2017. The dam's structure, primarily made of stone with a soil foundation, spans 300 feet in length and serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a history of state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, the dam is an integral component of water resource management in Sheridan County, Nebraska.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Mirage Flats Dam 2 presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and flood risk reduction. Its design, construction, and management by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices. With a focus on state regulation and inspection, this dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in safeguarding the local community from potential water-related hazards, showcasing the intersection of engineering, environmental conservation, and public safety.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
STURGEON DRAIN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
7.8 |
Nid Storage |
33 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Nr Ne-Sd State Line
|
10cfs |
White R Near Oglala Sd
|
101cfs |
Horsehead Cr At Oelrichs Sd
|
0cfs |
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.
Mirage Flats Dam 2