Capitol Beach Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Capitol Beach Dam, located in Lincoln, Nebraska, along the TR-OAK CREEK stream, serves as a primary recreational spot with a dam height of 20.6 feet and a length of 7,400 feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this privately owned earth dam provides a surface area of 272 acres and has a drainage area of 1.01 square miles. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2017, the dam offers normal storage of 2,015 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 2,453 acre-feet.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Capitol Beach Dam is state-regulated and inspected, ensuring its continued safe operation for recreational purposes. The dam's design includes a stone core and soil foundation, contributing to its structural integrity and overall reliability. With a maximum discharge capacity of 71 cubic feet per second, the dam has been functioning effectively to mitigate flood risks and provide water resource management in the area.

Congressional District 01's representative, Jeff Fortenberry, oversees the Capitol Beach Dam area, ensuring compliance with state regulations and safety standards. With a history of satisfactory inspections and low-risk potential, the dam remains a vital part of the local community's recreational landscape. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the environmental benefits and recreational opportunities provided by this important infrastructure in Nebraska.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

7400

Dam Height

20.6

River Or Stream

TR-OAK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

272

Hydraulic Height

20.6

Drainage Area

1.01

Nid Storage

2453

Structural Height

20.6

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.