Richard Miles Grade Stabilization Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The Richard Miles Grade Stabilization Dam, located in Niobrara, Nebraska, serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along the Niobrara River.
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Summary
Built in 1990 by USDA NRCS, this private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a hydraulic height of 35 feet. With a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet and a normal storage of 14 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
The dam's primary purpose goes beyond flood risk reduction, as it also serves other important functions for water resource management. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the Richard Miles Grade Stabilization Dam is regularly inspected by NE DNR to ensure its safety and efficiency. Its location in Holt County, Nebraska, makes it a key infrastructure for protecting communities and ecosystems along the Niobrara River.
As a significant component in the St. Paul District's water infrastructure, the Richard Miles Grade Stabilization Dam not only ensures flood protection but also contributes to the overall resilience of the region against climate-related challenges. With its strategic design and state-regulated operations, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NIOBRARA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
31 |
Structural Height |
45 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
45 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1700cfs |
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
191cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Niobrara River Nr. Verdel
|
517cfs |
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.
Richard Miles Grade Stabilization Dam