Buchholz Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wilson Dam 2708 Holdredge Street Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Buchholz Dam, located in Union, Nebraska, is a vital structure designed for flood risk reduction along the TR-S BR Weeping Water Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans a length of 665 feet, with a storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.
Although classified as having a low hazard potential, Buchholz Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The dam has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in May 2018, and there are no emergency action plans in place. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, this structure serves as a key asset in managing water resources and mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events in Cass County, Nebraska.
As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Buchholz Dam provides a fascinating case study in infrastructure design and management. The dam's location, design features, and operational history offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with maintaining critical water infrastructure in a changing climate. With its strategic placement and critical function, Buchholz Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to safeguard communities and natural resources from the threats of flooding and water-related hazards.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
665 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-S BR WEEPING WATER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
68 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
Platte R At Louisville Ne
|
5580cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
22500cfs |
Platte R Nr Ashland
|
6290cfs |
Salt Creek At Greenwood
|
125cfs |
Wahoo Cr At Ashland
|
78cfs |
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.
Buchholz Dam