Jerry Menke Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jerry Menke Dam, located in Nebraska along TR-LIBERTY CREEK, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS to primarily reduce flood risks in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 2001, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 500 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 186 acre-feet. The dam's low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment make it a reliable asset for flood risk reduction in the region.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Jerry Menke Dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. With a maximum discharge of 119 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a crucial infrastructure in safeguarding the surrounding Nuckolls County from potential flood events. The dam's stone core and soil foundation, along with its earth construction, contribute to its stability and effectiveness in managing water resources in the area.

While Jerry Menke Dam does not feature a spillway or outlet gates, its strategic location and design make it a vital component in the water resource management system of the region. With its satisfactory condition and low hazard potential, the dam continues to play a key role in flood risk reduction efforts, showcasing the importance of effective infrastructure in combating the impacts of climate change on water resources.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-LIBERTY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

1.4

Nid Storage

186

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.