Middle Big Nemaha 96 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Middle Big Nemaha 96 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Johnson, Nebraska, along the Town Branch stream.
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Summary
Owned by the local government and designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 51 feet and spans 1122 feet in length. Completed in 1991, it serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 1452 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 8913 cubic feet per second.
With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2020, Middle Big Nemaha 96 is regulated and inspected by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's location in NWS21T5R11E makes it a crucial infrastructure for protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic design and engineering of this structure to mitigate flood risks and safeguard the community of Tecumseh.
As a key component of flood risk management in the region, Middle Big Nemaha 96 plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety and resilience of the local water infrastructure. With its significant storage capacity, structural height, and regulatory oversight, this earth dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal and local agencies in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Middle Big Nemaha 96 exemplifies the intersection of engineering innovation and environmental stewardship in managing water resources for the future.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
1122 |
Dam Height |
51 |
River Or Stream |
TOWN BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
2.6 |
Nid Storage |
1452 |
Structural Height |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
60 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
North Fork Big Nemaha River At Humboldt
|
67cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
22500cfs |
Turkey C Nr Seneca
|
15cfs |
Salt Creek At Roca
|
5cfs |
Big Blue R At Barneston Nebr
|
131cfs |
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.
Middle Big Nemaha 96