Madison Foods Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Madison Foods Dam is a privately owned structure located in Madison, Nebraska, along the TR-UNION CREEK.
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Summary
Built in 1976 by USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and stretches 728 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 115 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction and other water resource management functions, making it a vital infrastructure in the region.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Madison Foods Dam has a significant hazard potential and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. This dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events and is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 463 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 0.6 square miles, the dam not only provides flood protection but also contributes to the overall water management and conservation efforts in the region.
Despite being privately owned, Madison Foods Dam is subject to state regulations and permitting requirements, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring its safe operation and maintenance. As a key piece of infrastructure in the area, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in safeguarding communities against natural hazards. With its strategic location and design, Madison Foods Dam stands as a critical asset in the region's water management infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
728 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-UNION CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
0.6 |
Nid Storage |
115 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elkhorn R At Norfolk Ne
|
440cfs |
Shell Creek Near Columbus
|
87cfs |
North Fork Elkhorn River Near Pierce
|
96cfs |
Elkhorn River At Pilger
|
633cfs |
Beaver Creek At Genoa
|
114cfs |
Loup River Near Genoa
|
1570cfs |
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.
Madison Foods Dam