Virginia Smith Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Virginia Smith, also known as Calamus Dam, is a federal-owned structure located in Garfield, Nebraska, along the Calamus River.
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Summary
Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, this earth-type dam was completed in 1985 primarily for irrigation purposes. With a height of 91 feet and a storage capacity of 177,623 acre-feet, Virginia Smith plays a vital role in water resource management in the region.
The dam, with a high hazard potential, is regulated and inspected by the Bureau of Reclamation to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its importance for irrigation, the condition assessment of Virginia Smith is currently not available. However, emergency action plans are in place, and periodic inspections are conducted to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam. With its significant storage capacity and impact on the local water supply, Virginia Smith remains a key infrastructure for water resource management in Nebraska.
In the event of an emergency, the dam has designated emergency contacts and an emergency action plan that meets guidelines, ensuring prompt response and risk management measures. Although the risk assessment and characterization summary are not available, the Bureau of Reclamation continues to oversee the operations and maintenance of Virginia Smith to safeguard the surrounding community and water resources. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, structures like Virginia Smith play a crucial role in sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
7295 |
Dam Height |
91 |
River Or Stream |
CALAMUS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5123 |
Hydraulic Height |
74 |
Drainage Area |
147 |
Nid Storage |
177623 |
Structural Height |
96 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
96 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Loup River At Taylor
|
464cfs |
North Loup R At Brewster
|
495cfs |
Middle Loup River At Dunning
|
581cfs |
Elkhorn River At Ewing
|
89cfs |
North Loup River Nr St Paul Nebr
|
2580cfs |
Middle Loup R. At St. Paul
|
1520cfs |
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.
Virginia Smith
Homestead Knolls