Gus Sall Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Gus Sall Dam, located in Orleans, Nebraska, is a key water management structure designed by the USDA NRCS in 1961.


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Summary

This earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and providing a small fish pond. The dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a length of 365 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 101 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 4 acres.

Managed by the local government, Gus Sall Dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment as of the last inspection in June 2018. Despite its low risk level, the dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the area, contributing to the overall sustainability of the region's water supply and ecosystem.

As a part of the broader water management infrastructure in the region, Gus Sall Dam contributes to the conservation and utilization of water resources in Harlan County, Nebraska. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam provides essential water storage for local agricultural and environmental needs, while also supporting fire protection measures and recreational activities. Overall, Gus Sall Dam stands as a testament to responsible water management practices, ensuring the resilience of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

365

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

FLAG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

101

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.