Kalmer Knudson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kalmer Knudson Dam, located in Lancaster, Nebraska, was completed in 1998 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along the TR-Little Salt Creek.


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Summary

This private-owned Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet, with a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 28 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 67 acre-feet and a normal storage of 23 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 5 acres and drains a 0.1 square mile area.

Managed and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NE DNR), the Kalmer Knudson Dam has a low hazard potential and is in fair condition based on the last inspection in September 2016. While primarily serving flood risk reduction purposes, it also caters to other uses in the area. With its close proximity to Lincoln and the oversight of the Kansas City District, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

As a key infrastructure in the area, the Kalmer Knudson Dam contributes to the overall water management strategies in Nebraska. With its stone core and soil foundations, the dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and government agencies in ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding communities. With state-regulated inspection and enforcement in place, the dam continues to play a pivotal role in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

67

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.