Rolling Hills Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Rolling Hills Dam, located in Buffalo County, Nebraska, is a local government-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1967.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 7.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 72.2 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-Platte River, just 4 miles from Kearney, and is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
Despite being classified as having a "significant" hazard potential, Rolling Hills Dam is currently in fair condition as of the last inspection in June 2019. The dam's structural height matches its hydraulic height at 7.5 feet, with a length of 260 feet and a surface area of 6.1 acres. While there is no spillway type specified, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 190 cubic feet per second, serving the local community for both recreation and water resource management purposes.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Rolling Hills Dam an interesting case study in the management and regulation of a recreational earth dam in the heart of Nebraska. Owned by the local government and designed by the USDA NRCS, this structure provides essential water storage for the area while also offering opportunities for leisure activities. With its location on the TR-Platte River and a storage capacity of 72.2 acre-feet, Rolling Hills Dam showcases the intersection of human infrastructure and natural resources in a dynamic ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
7.5 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PLATTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
7.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.18 |
Nid Storage |
72.2 |
Structural Height |
7.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River Near Kearney
|
928cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1280cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1390cfs |
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Union Pacific State Rec Area
|
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Fort Kearny State Rec Area
|
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Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area
|
Rolling Hills Dam
Cottonmill