Van Housen Lagoon Dam, located in Stromsburg, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources. Built in 1985, the earth dam stands at 15 feet in height and spans 250 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for purposes other than flood control or water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.1 square miles.

Designed by Settje Agri-Services & Engineering, the dam is constructed with a stone core and soil foundation, maintaining a satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in April 2018. It is situated on the TR-Big Blue River and falls under the jurisdiction of the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Despite being a non-federal structure, the dam undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of dams will find Van Housen Lagoon Dam a fascinating case study. With its unique design features, regulatory oversight by the Nebraska DNR, and the involvement of private owners and engineering firms, this dam serves as a noteworthy example of water infrastructure in the region. The dam's history, construction details, and state-regulated operations offer valuable insights into the complexities of managing water resources in a sustainable and responsible manner.