Helen Labass Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dux Dam Cub Creek 17-B
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Helen Labass Dam, located in Fairbury, 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 1998, this earth dam stands at 18 feet tall and serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the TR-Little Blue River. With a storage capacity of 148 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.8 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks. Its optimal location in Jefferson County, Nebraska, allows it to efficiently store excess water during periods of heavy rainfall, preventing potential flooding downstream. With a structural height of 23 feet and a length of 670 feet, Helen Labass Dam is a key component of the local water resource management infrastructure.
Managed by private owners and funded by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Helen Labass Dam exemplifies the importance of collaboration between government agencies and private entities in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resource management, structures like Helen Labass Dam play a vital role in enhancing resilience and protecting the environment for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
670 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
148 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Blue River Near Fairbury
|
230cfs |
Little Blue R At Hollenberg
|
70cfs |
Turkey Creek Near De Witt
|
10cfs |
Mill C At Washington
|
8cfs |
Big Blue River Near Crete
|
95cfs |
L Blue R Nr Barnes
|
101cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Crystal Springs Lake
|
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Buckley Creek
|
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Rock Creek Station State Rec Area
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Helen Labass Dam