Mathiesen Dam 2720 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mathiesen Dam 2720, located in Herman, Nebraska, is a privately-owned structure designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Completed in 2003, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet with a hydraulic height of 32 feet and a structural height of 37 feet. It has a length of 425 feet and provides a maximum storage capacity of 21 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 6 acre-feet.

Situated on TR-New York Creek in Washington County, Nebraska, Mathiesen Dam 2720 has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in May 2016. The dam covers a surface area of 2 acres and drains a 0.3 square mile area, with a maximum discharge rate of 142 cubic feet per second. It is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and effectiveness in flood risk management.

With its strategic location, sound design, and regulatory oversight, Mathiesen Dam 2720 serves as a vital infrastructure contributing to flood risk reduction efforts in the region. Its construction reflects a commitment to water resource management and climate resilience, showcasing the importance of private initiatives in safeguarding communities against natural disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Mathiesen Dam 2720 lies in its role as a key asset in enhancing the resilience of Nebraska's water infrastructure and protecting the surrounding areas from potential flood events.

Year Completed

2003

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

TR-NEW YORK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

21

Structural Height

37

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.