Middle Big Nemaha 12 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Middle Big Nemaha 12 is a local government-owned earth dam located in Vesta, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the NE DNR.
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Summary
Completed in 2000, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along TR-Yankee Creek, with a height of 43 feet and a length of 1534 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 190 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 6010 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the area.
The dam's condition assessment in 2019 deemed it to be satisfactory, with a significant hazard potential and a satisfactory emergency action plan. Despite not being owned or funded by federal agencies, Middle Big Nemaha 12 meets state regulations and undergoes regular inspections, with a inspection frequency of 3 years. With its stone core and soil foundation, this dam is a crucial infrastructure for protecting the surrounding area from flooding events and ensuring water resource management in Johnson County, Nebraska.
Overall, Middle Big Nemaha 12 stands as a testament to the importance of local government-led flood risk reduction efforts in the face of climate change challenges. With its strategic location, design, and operational framework, this dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between agencies like the USDA NRCS and the NE DNR in safeguarding communities and water resources against the impacts of extreme weather events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Middle Big Nemaha 12 is vital in building resilience and sustainability in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
1534 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
TR-YANKEE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
34 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Drainage Area |
5.2 |
Nid Storage |
1966 |
Structural Height |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
54 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Middle Big Nemaha 12