Zorinsky Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Zorinsky Dam, also known as Lake Zorinsky, is a federal-owned rockfill dam located in Omaha, Nebraska, along Boxelder Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1985 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction, with additional purposes for fish and wildlife ponds and recreation. Standing at a hydraulic height of 85 feet and a structural height of 90 feet, Zorinsky Dam has a storage capacity of 18,282 acre-feet and a spillway width of 400 feet.

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Zorinsky Dam poses a high hazard potential and undergoes inspections every 5 years. The dam's risk management measures include continuous monitoring, prioritized maintenance activities, and collaboration with local emergency managers to ensure public safety in the event of a dam-related emergency. With a moderate risk assessment rating, Zorinsky Dam remains a crucial asset in managing flood risks in the region, with ongoing efforts to enhance its resilience against severe weather events and potential issues.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

3400

River Or Stream

BOXELDER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

253

Hydraulic Height

85

Drainage Area

16

Nid Storage

18282

Structural Height

90

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

90
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.