Vavra-Semler Dam B Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Vavra-Semler Dam B, located in Crete, Nebraska, along the TR-Johnson Creek, is a privately owned structure designed for flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 1982, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and stretches 575 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 74.4 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition, last assessed in May 2017.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Vavra-Semler Dam B is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. With a drainage area of 0.46 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 222 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. Although there are no spillways or outlet gates associated with this structure, its strategic location and design make it a vital component of water resource management in Saline County.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Vavra-Semler Dam B serves as a noteworthy example of private infrastructure contributing to flood control efforts in Nebraska. As efforts to improve its condition and maintenance continue, the dam remains a key asset for the community, protecting against potential inundation and ensuring the safety of nearby residents and ecosystems. With ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight, this earth dam exemplifies the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and public safety in water resource management.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR-JOHNSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
0.46 |
Nid Storage |
74.4 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Vavra-Semler Dam B