Upper Big Nemaha 9-A Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Upper Big Nemaha 9-A is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Gage, Nebraska, along the TR-MID BR Big Nemaha River.
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Summary
Constructed in 1985 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a structural height of 34 feet, providing crucial protection to the surrounding area. With a normal storage capacity of 66 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.6 square miles, Upper Big Nemaha 9-A plays a key role in mitigating potential flood hazards in the region.
Despite its importance, Upper Big Nemaha 9-A is currently assessed as being in poor condition, highlighting the need for maintenance and inspection to ensure its continued effectiveness. With a hazard potential rated as low, the dam still requires regular monitoring and upkeep to uphold its flood risk reduction capabilities. The Nebraska Department of Natural Resources regulates this structure and conducts inspections to uphold safety standards, emphasizing the commitment to safeguarding the community from potential water-related emergencies.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, structures like Upper Big Nemaha 9-A are crucial for maintaining the resilience of communities against flooding events. With its strategic location and design, this dam serves as a vital asset in the overall water resource management strategy for Gage, Nebraska, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure in adapting to a changing climate and protecting against natural disasters.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
866 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MID BR BIG NEMAHA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
0.6 |
Nid Storage |
309 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
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