Wendell Johnson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gartner Dam Shaw Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Wendell Johnson Dam, located in Adams, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 1990, this earthen dam stands at 23 feet in height and spans 575 feet in length, providing a maximum storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Cottonwood Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the local watershed, with a drainage area of 0.5 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 27 acre-feet.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Wendell Johnson Dam undergoes regular inspections every 5 years by the NE DNR to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. With a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a structural height of 27 feet, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control in the region. Its location in Ayr, Nebraska, makes it a key component of the local water resource management system, providing essential protection against potential flood events while supporting sustainable water usage practices for the community.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Wendell Johnson Dam represents a collaborative effort to safeguard the surrounding area from flood risks and ensure the long-term resilience of the water infrastructure. As a significant structure in the Omaha District, the dam's role in flood risk reduction and water resource management underscores the importance of proactive planning and maintenance to address the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events. With a focus on safety and efficiency, Wendell Johnson Dam stands as a testament to the dedication of both public and private entities in preserving water resources and enhancing climate resilience in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
74 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Wendell Johnson Dam