Upper Little Nemaha 17 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Little Nemaha 17 is a local government-owned dam in Nebraska, specifically in Otoe County near the city of UNADILLA.


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Summary

Built in 1996, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 36 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR-Hooper Creek. With a drainage area of 4.9 square miles and a storage capacity of 1191 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating potential flood hazards in the region.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NE DNR), Upper Little Nemaha 17 has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in August 2016. Despite its age, the dam continues to effectively serve its purpose, providing essential flood protection to the surrounding area. The dam's design features a stone core and soil foundation, contributing to its structural integrity and reliability in flood control operations.

As part of the Kansas City District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, Upper Little Nemaha 17 demonstrates the collaborative efforts between local and federal agencies in managing water resources and addressing climate-related challenges. With a focus on flood risk reduction and a commitment to regular inspection and maintenance, this dam stands as a vital asset in safeguarding the community and enhancing resilience to potential water-related threats in the region.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

1297

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

TR-HOOPER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

31

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

4.9

Nid Storage

1191

Structural Height

46

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

46
       
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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.