Lightner Dam (Big L) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lightner Dam (Big L) is a privately owned structure located in Knox, Nebraska, along the Soldier Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 2013, this earthen dam stands at a height of 43.6 feet and serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 691.8 acre-feet. The dam has a fair condition assessment and a low hazard potential, making it a reliable asset for water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Lightner Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and storage in the area. With a drainage area of 8.02 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 2874 cubic feet per second, the dam helps to ensure water availability for agricultural activities while minimizing flood risks. Its strategic location and design make it a vital component of the local water infrastructure.

Despite its relatively recent completion, Lightner Dam has already established itself as a key player in the water resource management of the region. With its efficient operations, low hazard potential, and fair condition, the dam represents a sustainable solution for irrigation needs in Knox, Nebraska, showcasing the importance of private investment in water infrastructure for climate resilience and resource sustainability.

Year Completed

2013

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

43.6

River Or Stream

SOLDIER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21.7

Hydraulic Height

43.24

Drainage Area

8.02

Nid Storage

691.8

Structural Height

50.6

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

51
       
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.