Schwede Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Schwede Dam, located in Stanton, Nebraska, along the TR-Elkhorn River, serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction in the area.
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Summary
Built in 1975, this earth dam stands at a height of 19.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 126.7 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently rated as poor in condition assessment, highlighting the need for maintenance and improvements to ensure its long-term functionality.
Owned privately and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Schwede Dam plays a critical role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events. With a drainage area of 0.93 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 830 cubic feet per second, the dam effectively manages water flow to minimize the risk of inundation. However, its poor condition assessment underscores the importance of regular inspections and upkeep to maintain its effectiveness in flood risk reduction.
As a key infrastructure for water resource management in the region, Schwede Dam not only provides flood protection but also supports environmental conservation efforts. With its location in the Omaha District and under Congressional District 01, Nebraska, the dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between government agencies and private owners to safeguard communities against the impacts of climate change and water-related disasters.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
741 |
Dam Height |
19.7 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ELKHORN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
19.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.93 |
Nid Storage |
126.7 |
Structural Height |
19.7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elkhorn River At Pilger
|
633cfs |
Elkhorn R At Norfolk Ne
|
440cfs |
Elkhorn River At West Point
|
877cfs |
North Fork Elkhorn River Near Pierce
|
100cfs |
Logan Creek At Wakefield
|
149cfs |
Shell Creek Near Columbus
|
87cfs |
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.
Schwede Dam
Red Fox WMA