4th Avenue Storm Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kearney Dam Lighthouse Point Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Located in Kearney, Nebraska, the 4th Avenue Storm Detention Dam stands as a vital structure designed by Stanley Engineering Co Inc to mitigate flood risks along the TR-Wood River.
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Summary
Completed in 1989, this private-owned Earth dam boasts a height of 19 feet and a length of 535 feet, providing a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet. With a high hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its operational integrity.
The primary purpose of the 4th Avenue Storm Detention Dam is flood risk reduction, serving as a crucial line of defense against potential inundation in the Buffalo County region. Situated within a drainage area of 0.2 square miles, the dam's design includes a stone core and soil foundation, with a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a structural height of 25 feet. In the event of high water levels, the dam can accommodate a maximum discharge of 1620 cubic feet per second, safeguarding the surrounding community from flood-related damages.
With its strategic location and key role in flood management, the 4th Avenue Storm Detention Dam exemplifies the importance of proactive water resource infrastructure in adapting to changing climate conditions. As climate enthusiasts and water resource experts continue to monitor and assess the resilience of such structures, the 4th Avenue Dam stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction measures and collaborative regulatory efforts in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
535 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WOOD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
91 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River Near Kearney
|
928cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1280cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1390cfs |
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Fort Kearny State Rec Area
|
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Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area
|
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Union Pacific State Rec Area
|
4th Avenue Storm Detention Dam
Cottonmill