Lightner Dam 2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lightner Dam 2 is a privately owned structure located in Knox, Nebraska, along Soldier Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1970, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20.5 feet and serves primarily for irrigation purposes. With a storage capacity of 115.6 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 7.2 acres and has a drainage area of 2.93 square miles. The dam's design includes a stone core and rests on a soil foundation, making it a vital resource for water management in the region.
Maintained by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NE DNR), Lightner Dam 2 has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in fair condition. The last inspection was conducted in May 2016, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every five years. While the dam has not undergone any significant modifications since its completion, it remains a crucial infrastructure for ensuring water supply stability and flood control along Soldier Creek. With its strategic location and operational efficiency, this dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and environmental sustainability in the area.
Managed within the jurisdiction of Nebraska, Lightner Dam 2 has a solid regulatory framework in place, including permitting, inspection, and enforcement procedures. The dam is not owned or funded by any federal agency, highlighting its private ownership and local significance. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, structures like Lightner Dam 2 are essential for adapting to and mitigating the effects of variability in water availability. Its role in maintaining water security and resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
20.5 |
River Or Stream |
SOLDIER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
19.1 |
Drainage Area |
2.93 |
Nid Storage |
115.6 |
Structural Height |
25.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Niobrara River Nr. Verdel
|
517cfs |
Verdigre C Nr Verdigre
|
206cfs |
Ponca Creek At Verdel
|
23cfs |
Bazile Creek Near Niobrara
|
192cfs |
Bazile Creek At Center
|
85cfs |
Elkhorn River At Ewing
|
89cfs |
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.
Lightner Dam 2