Middle Big Nemaha 3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Meisinger Dam 2 Meisinger Dam 1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Middle Big Nemaha 3 is a local government-owned earth dam located in Johnson County, Nebraska, specifically in the city of St.
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Summary
Mary. Designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 2000, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Deer Creek. Standing at a height of 50 feet with a structural height of 61 feet, Middle Big Nemaha 3 has a storage capacity of 2930.4 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 44 acres, providing protection to a drainage area of 8.8 square miles.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Middle Big Nemaha 3 has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of its last inspection in June 2016. With a normal storage capacity of 335 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 5114 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. Supported by a stone core and soil foundation, Middle Big Nemaha 3 demonstrates the collaborative efforts between local governments and federal agencies in safeguarding water resources and communities from the impacts of extreme weather events.
As part of the flood risk reduction infrastructure in Nebraska, Middle Big Nemaha 3 stands as a testament to the importance of proactive water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. With state-regulated operations and regular inspections, this dam symbolizes the commitment to ensuring the safety and resilience of communities in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the design, function, and impact of structures like Middle Big Nemaha 3 is essential in promoting sustainable water management practices and building climate resilience for the future.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
1405 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
DEER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
44 |
Hydraulic Height |
48 |
Drainage Area |
8.8 |
Nid Storage |
2930.4 |
Structural Height |
61 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
61 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Salt Creek At Roca
|
5cfs |
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
North Fork Big Nemaha River At Humboldt
|
67cfs |
Big Blue R At Barneston Nebr
|
131cfs |
Turkey Creek Near De Witt
|
10cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
24100cfs |
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 3