Brinkman Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Brinkman Dam, located in Tecumseh, Nebraska, on the TR-N FK BIG NEMAHA RIVER, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 2007, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a structural height of 29 feet, with a total length of 470 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 14.5 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 3 acres and draining a 0.3 square mile watershed.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Brinkman Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in May 2019. The dam has state jurisdiction and is subject to regular inspections, with a mandated inspection frequency of 5 years. In the event of an emergency, the dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated contact information, raising some concerns about the preparedness for potential risks associated with the structure.
Despite its modest size and storage capacity, Brinkman Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks along the TR-N FK BIG NEMAHA RIVER in Johnson County, Nebraska. Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship can appreciate the significance of this privately owned dam in safeguarding the local community and surrounding areas from potential flood events.
Year Completed |
2007 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-N FK BIG NEMAHA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Brinkman Dam