Oeltjen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Farwell 1-1 Farwell 1-4
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Oeltjen Dam, located in Howard, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1985, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 22 acre-feet. The dam spans 340 feet in length and is situated on the TR-North Loup River, within the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Oeltjen Dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a hydraulic height of 15 feet and is made of stone core with a soil foundation. With a maximum discharge capacity of 63 cubic feet per second, Oeltjen Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing irrigation water to the surrounding area. The dam is not under the jurisdiction of any federal agency, making its maintenance and operation the responsibility of its private owner.
As a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure, Oeltjen Dam serves as a key asset for water management in the region. Its strategic location and design contribute to the efficient utilization of water resources for agricultural purposes, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating the impacts of climate change. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Oeltjen Dam to be a fascinating example of how private entities play a significant role in water resource management and adaptation to changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH LOUP RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Loup River Nr St Paul Nebr
|
2580cfs |
Middle Loup R. At St. Paul
|
1310cfs |
South Loup R At St. Michael
|
200cfs |
Warm Slough Nr Central City
|
0cfs |
Platte River Near Grand Island
|
1450cfs |
Loup River Power Canal Near Genoa
|
2080cfs |
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.
Oeltjen Dam