Justin Ellicot Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Justin Ellicot Dam, located in Thayer, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Completed in 1991, this earth dam stands at 20 feet high and stretches for 536 feet, serving primarily for irrigation purposes along Sandy Creek. With a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 4 acres and has a drainage area of 0.2 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is inspected every 5 years and was last assessed as satisfactory in April 2019. With a maximum discharge of 20 cubic feet per second, the dam's condition is monitored by state regulators to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment details are currently not available, but the structure remains a crucial resource for water management in the region.
Under the jurisdiction of the Omaha District and with Congressman Adrian Smith representing the area, Justin Ellicot Dam plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities in Thayer County. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, the dam provides essential irrigation water to farmers and helps regulate water flow in the Sandy Creek watershed. With its strategic location and reliable performance, the dam continues to contribute to sustainable water resource management in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
536 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Justin Ellicot Dam