Higgins Dam 2133 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Higgins Dam 2133, located in Niobrara, Nebraska, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1971 for the primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 35 feet with a length of 310 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and serves an area with a drainage area of 2 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently rated as being in poor condition, with its last inspection in 2013 revealing the need for improvements.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Higgins Dam 2133 overlooks the Niobrara River and plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural irrigation in the region. With a maximum discharge capacity of 113 cubic feet per second, this dam serves as a vital resource for maintaining water supply stability in the area. Although the dam is currently deemed to have a low risk level, ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades may be necessary to ensure its long-term reliability and safety.
As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Higgins Dam 2133 represents a critical piece of the region's water management system. With its strategic location and design tailored for irrigation purposes, this dam underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring water security for agricultural activities. As discussions around climate resilience and water scarcity continue to gain momentum, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Higgins Dam 2133 will be essential for safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
310 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NIOBRARA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1700cfs |
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
191cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Niobrara River Nr. Verdel
|
517cfs |
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.
Higgins Dam 2133