Boren Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Boren Dam, located in Odessa, Nebraska, is a local government-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Completed in 2002, this Earth-type dam stands at 35 feet high and spans 845 feet in length along the TR-Plum Creek. The dam has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition according to the most recent assessment in April 2019.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Boren Dam has a state-regulated status with permitting, inspection, and enforcement procedures in place. The dam's construction was funded by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and it has a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. Situated in a drainage area of 0.7 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding community.

With its strategic location and effective design, Boren Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control along the TR-Plum Creek. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and the USDA NRCS in safeguarding the region from potential flooding events. As a key component of Nebraska's water management system, Boren Dam exemplifies the importance of proactive measures in ensuring the resilience of communities against natural disasters.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

845

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-PLUM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

51

Structural Height

39

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

39
       
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.