Long Branch 21 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dejonge South Dam Long Branch 41
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Long Branch 21 is a locally owned earth dam located in Richardson County, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1986 for flood risk reduction along Kirkham Creek.
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Summary
With a height of 60 feet and a hydraulic height of 53 feet, this structure plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The dam has a storage capacity of 5,841 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 155 acres, serving as a vital flood control measure for the region.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Long Branch 21 is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a high hazard potential but has been assessed as satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in June 2020. Although there are no associated locks or spillways, the dam's primary purpose remains flood risk reduction, highlighting its significance in mitigating potential water-related disasters in the area. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the critical role this infrastructure plays in safeguarding the local community and environment from the impacts of extreme weather events.
Long Branch 21, nestled in the picturesque city of Humboldt, Nebraska, stands as a testament to effective water resource management and flood control measures in the region. With its stone core and soil foundation, this earth dam serves as a vital line of defense against flooding along Kirkham Creek. Its strategic location and design, coupled with regular inspections and maintenance, underscore its importance in protecting lives and property from the devastating effects of high water levels. For those passionate about water resource and climate issues, Long Branch 21 represents a key piece of infrastructure that plays a crucial role in enhancing resilience and sustainability in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
1870 |
Dam Height |
60 |
River Or Stream |
KIRKHAM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
155 |
Hydraulic Height |
53 |
Drainage Area |
9.3 |
Nid Storage |
5841 |
Structural Height |
69 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
69 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Big Nemaha River At Humboldt
|
67cfs |
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
Turkey C Nr Seneca
|
15cfs |
Big Nemaha River At Falls City
|
310cfs |
Missouri River At Rulo
|
25500cfs |
Tarkio River At Fairfax Mo
|
88cfs |
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.
Long Branch 21