Beckler South Upper Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Beckler South Upper Dam, located in Seward, Nebraska, serves as a crucial irrigation structure along the TR-Big Blue River.


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Summary

Built in 1952 by the USDA NRCS, this private-owned dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22 feet. With a storage capacity of 43 acre-feet, it primarily caters to irrigation needs in the surrounding area, storing water for agricultural purposes.

Maintained by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Beckler South Upper Dam is regulated, permitted, and inspected by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to mitigate any potential risks. With a surface area of 2 acres and a maximum discharge of 26 cubic feet per second, this earth dam plays a vital role in water resource management within the region.

Although Beckler South Upper Dam does not have a designated spillway or outlet gates, it remains a key feature in the local water infrastructure. With its stone core and soil foundation, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Beckler South Upper Dam as a critical component in supporting agricultural activities and maintaining water security in the region.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

435

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-BIG BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

43

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.