Rothell Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: 2008 Hartmann Dam Hartmann Dam 3892
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Rothell Dam, located in STEINAUER, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed to serve multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 2002, this Earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet, with a structural height of 25 feet and a length of 645 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 61 acre-feet and a normal storage of 22 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Managed by the NE DNR and regulated by the state, Rothell Dam has a low hazard potential and has been assessed as satisfactory in terms of its condition. The dam's last inspection took place in September 2018, with a frequency of inspections every 10 years. Despite its low risk, the dam is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 16 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety of the surrounding area in case of emergencies.
Sitting on TR-SAMPSON BRANCH, Rothell Dam not only contributes to flood risk reduction but also serves as an essential water resource infrastructure in Johnson, Nebraska. With its strategic location and design, the dam continues to play a vital role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the region, showcasing the importance of private ownership in maintaining and operating critical infrastructure.
Year Completed |
2002 |
Dam Length |
645 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SAMPSON BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Blue R At Barneston Nebr
|
131cfs |
North Fork Big Nemaha River At Humboldt
|
67cfs |
Turkey C Nr Seneca
|
15cfs |
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
Turkey Creek Near De Witt
|
10cfs |
Salt Creek At Roca
|
5cfs |
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.
Rothell Dam