Bernard Norman Dam 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Sioux County, Nebraska, Bernard Norman Dam 2 is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1970 primarily for flood risk reduction along TR-Dirty Creek.


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Summary

With a height of 19.7 feet and a length of 485 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 575.3 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 373.6 acre-feet, serving as a crucial infrastructure for mitigating potential flooding in the area. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in 2019.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Bernard Norman Dam 2 is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety. However, with a poor condition assessment and no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, there is a need for heightened risk management measures and preparedness in case of emergencies. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and management of dams like Bernard Norman Dam 2 is essential for understanding the complexities of water infrastructure and the challenges they face in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

485

Dam Height

19.7

River Or Stream

TR-DIRTY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

59.2

Hydraulic Height

19.7

Drainage Area

2.52

Nid Storage

575.3

Structural Height

19.7

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.