Nielsen South Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Nielsen South Dam, located in Knox, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes along the TR-Soldier Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1990, this earth dam stands at a height of 22.2 feet and has a storage capacity of 87.3 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 39.2 acre-feet. The dam covers a surface area of 10.3 acres and serves a drainage area of 2.35 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 42 cubic feet per second.
Despite its low hazard potential, Nielsen South Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition as of May 2018. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and integrity. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam is a vital component in the local irrigation system and contributes to the agricultural activities in the region. As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Nielsen South Dam offers a glimpse into the management and maintenance of crucial water infrastructure in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
22.2 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOLDIER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
22.2 |
Drainage Area |
2.35 |
Nid Storage |
87.3 |
Structural Height |
22.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Niobrara River Nr. Verdel
|
517cfs |
Verdigre C Nr Verdigre
|
206cfs |
Ponca Creek At Verdel
|
23cfs |
Bazile Creek Near Niobrara
|
192cfs |
Bazile Creek At Center
|
85cfs |
Elkhorn River At Ewing
|
89cfs |
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.
Nielsen South Dam