Hippen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hoffman Dam 2587 Milton Sargent Dam
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Hippen Dam, located in Steinauer, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the TR-Turkey Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 2004, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 18 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, although it also serves other functions.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Hippen Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safe operation. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2016, this dam provides vital protection for the surrounding area. Despite its modest size, covering a surface area of 6 acres and draining a 0.3 square mile watershed, Hippen Dam is a key component of the local water resource infrastructure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricate network of dams across Nebraska, Hippen Dam stands out for its effective flood risk reduction measures and reliable performance. With a solid structural design featuring stone core and soil foundation, this dam exemplifies the state's commitment to ensuring the safety and sustainability of its water management systems. As it continues to be monitored and maintained by state authorities, Hippen Dam remains a critical piece of the puzzle in safeguarding communities from potential water-related disasters.
Year Completed |
2004 |
Dam Length |
483 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TURKEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Blue R At Barneston Nebr
|
131cfs |
Turkey Creek Near De Witt
|
10cfs |
North Fork Big Nemaha River At Humboldt
|
67cfs |
Turkey C Nr Seneca
|
16cfs |
Salt Creek At Roca
|
5cfs |
Big Blue R At Marysville
|
171cfs |
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.
Hippen Dam