Darold Eaton Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Brown Dam 589 Gunst Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Darold Eaton Dam, located in Buffalo County, Nebraska, was completed in 1983 and is managed by a private owner.
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Summary
The dam, with a height of 26.1 feet and a storage capacity of 78.8 acre-feet, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. It is primarily constructed from earth and stone materials, with a soil foundation, and spans a length of 385 feet.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, its condition is assessed as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential improvements. The last inspection in March 2020 highlighted the dam's need for attention to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Darold Eaton Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and maintenance. With its location in the Sand Creek watershed and its importance for various uses, the dam's condition and regulatory oversight raise questions about balancing water resource management with infrastructure upkeep. As stakeholders work to address the dam's poor condition and ensure its long-term viability, the case of Darold Eaton Dam offers insight into the intersection of water resources, climate adaptation, and dam safety.
Year Completed |
1983 |
Dam Length |
385 |
Dam Height |
26.1 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
23.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.58 |
Nid Storage |
78.8 |
Structural Height |
26.1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Loup R At St. Michael
|
200cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
928cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1280cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
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.
Darold Eaton Dam