Middle Big Nemaha 4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Middle Big Nemaha 4, located in Tecumseh, Nebraska, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure designed by USDA NRCS in 2003.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and a hydraulic height of 46 feet, with a structural height of 56 feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Beatty Creek, offering a storage capacity of 1305 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 103 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 4.4 square miles and a maximum discharge of 3225 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks in the region.
Owned by the local government, Middle Big Nemaha 4 is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam's satisfactory condition assessment in 2016 and low hazard potential indicate its reliability in flood risk management. With a surface area of 15 acres and a dam length of 1398 feet, this structure provides essential protection to the surrounding area. As a key component of the flood control infrastructure in Johnson County, Nebraska, Middle Big Nemaha 4 highlights the importance of effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
In the event of emergencies, the dam's preparedness and risk management measures are critical for ensuring the safety of the community. While further details on emergency action plans and risk assessment are yet to be confirmed, Middle Big Nemaha 4's role in reducing flood risks and safeguarding the local environment underscores the significance of proactive water resource management practices. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this structure serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to enhance resilience and sustainability in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
1398 |
Dam Height |
47 |
River Or Stream |
BEATTY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Hydraulic Height |
46 |
Drainage Area |
4.4 |
Nid Storage |
1305 |
Structural Height |
56 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
56 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Big Nemaha River At Humboldt
|
67cfs |
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
Salt Creek At Roca
|
5cfs |
Big Blue R At Barneston Nebr
|
131cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
24100cfs |
Turkey Creek Near De Witt
|
10cfs |
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.
Middle Big Nemaha 4