Lottman-Carpenter Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Jefferson, Nebraska, the Lottman-Carpenter Dam stands as a testament to innovative water resource management practices.


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Summary

Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam primarily serves the purpose of irrigation, providing vital water supply to the surrounding agricultural lands. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 285 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 42 acre-feet, supporting a drainage area of 0.05 square miles.

Managed by a private entity, the dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, ensuring state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. Despite its low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, the dam remains a critical infrastructure for water management in the region. The Lottman-Carpenter Dam is a key component of the local water supply system, supporting the farming community and contributing to the sustainable use of water resources in the area.

With its strategic location on TR-SPRING CREEK and under the oversight of the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Lottman-Carpenter Dam plays a crucial role in controlling water flow, enhancing irrigation efficiency, and mitigating potential flood risks. As a symbol of collaboration between private ownership, government regulation, and environmental conservation, the dam represents a harmonious blend of human ingenuity and natural resource stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

285

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

42

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.