Upper Little Nemaha 50 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Otoe County, Nebraska, the Upper Little Nemaha 50 dam serves as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the Wolf Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 2001, this earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and has a structural height of 49 feet, providing a vital line of defense against potential flooding in the region. With a normal storage capacity of 173 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 490 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential water-related disasters.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the Upper Little Nemaha 50 dam has been assessed as having a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition. With a drainage area of 3.7 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 1491 cubic feet per second, this dam is equipped to handle significant water flow during heavy rainfall events. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure that the dam remains in optimal operating condition, providing peace of mind to the community and stakeholders who rely on its flood protection capabilities.

Congressional District 01 in Nebraska, represented by Jeff Fortenberry, oversees the management and maintenance of the Upper Little Nemaha 50 dam. With a history of successful flood risk reduction and a track record of satisfactory performance, this crucial infrastructure continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the local area from the impacts of water-related disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Upper Little Nemaha 50 dam serves as an example of effective infrastructure management and proactive flood risk mitigation in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

WOLF CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

31

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

3.7

Nid Storage

490

Structural Height

49

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

49
       
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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.