Richard Miles Dam Repair Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 6, 2026
The Richard Miles Dam in Nebraska, located on Clay Creek, is undergoing a much-needed repair project led by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
The dam, classified as an Earth type with a stone core and soil foundation, stands at 19 feet in height and stretches 297 feet in length. Completed in 1997, the dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction and other functions, with a normal storage capacity of 16 acre-feet and a max discharge of 455 cubic feet per second.
Despite being in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2016, the dam is considered to have a low hazard potential. It is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. The repair project aims to ensure the structural integrity and functionality of the dam for years to come, safeguarding the surrounding community and the environment from potential risks associated with dam failure. Water resource and climate enthusiasts are keeping a close eye on the progress of the Richard Miles Dam Repair, as it plays a crucial role in water management and flood control in the area.
Year Completed |
1997 |
Dam Length |
297 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
CLAY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1570cfs |
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
199cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Niobrara River Nr. Verdel
|
517cfs |
Ponca Creek At Verdel
|
23cfs |
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 Dam Repair