Big Valley Livestock Lagoon Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The Big Valley Livestock Lagoon Dam, located in Custer County, Nebraska, stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 2007, this private-owned earth dam serves as a crucial water storage facility for the agricultural community in the area. With a maximum storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 52 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in ensuring water availability for livestock and irrigation purposes.
Constructed with a height of 20 feet and a length of 2145 feet, the Big Valley Livestock Lagoon Dam is designed to withstand the hydraulic pressures of the TR-Elk Creek, under the regulatory oversight of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NE DNR). Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is subject to regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The surrounding community benefits from the dam's presence, providing a reliable water source while minimizing flood risks in the area.
With its strategic location and efficient design, the Big Valley Livestock Lagoon Dam represents a harmonious blend of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water availability in the region, dams like this play a crucial role in safeguarding water resources for agricultural and environmental sustainability. The collaboration between private owners, state regulatory agencies, and the local community underscores the importance of proactive measures in ensuring the long-term viability of water infrastructure in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
2007 |
Dam Length |
2145 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ELK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
59 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
3cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1500cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1390cfs |
South Loup R At St. Michael
|
178cfs |
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.
Big Valley Livestock Lagoon Dam