Don Mannlein Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Don Mannlein Dam, located in Wheeler, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1983, the earth dam stands at 10 feet in height and spans 510 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2018 revealed a poor rating, prompting the need for further inspection and maintenance.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. Situated on Clearwater Creek, the dam is a vital component of the local irrigation system, serving agricultural needs in the area. While it has not undergone significant modifications since its completion, ongoing risk assessments and management measures may be necessary to address its poor condition assessment.
With its strategic location and importance for irrigation in the region, Don Mannlein Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Nebraska. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, ensuring the safety and efficiency of such infrastructure becomes increasingly vital. By addressing the maintenance needs and improving the condition of the dam, stakeholders can enhance its resilience to future challenges and safeguard water resources for the community.
Year Completed |
1983 |
Dam Length |
510 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
CLEARWATER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
38 |
Nid Storage |
92 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elkhorn River At Ewing
|
89cfs |
Verdigre C Nr Verdigre
|
206cfs |
Bazile Creek At Center
|
85cfs |
Niobrara River Nr. Verdel
|
517cfs |
North Fork Elkhorn River Near Pierce
|
91cfs |
North Loup River At Taylor
|
487cfs |
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.
Don Mannlein Dam