Esslinger Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Salisbury Dam Anderson Dam 1329
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Esslinger Dam, located in Arapahoe, Nebraska, is a local government-owned structure designed by USDA NRCS that serves a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 275 feet, with a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Elk Creek in Gosper County, Nebraska, the dam is regulated by the NE DNR and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential, Esslinger Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area and protecting against potential flooding events. With a normal storage capacity of 27 acre-feet and a surface area of 9 acres, the dam contributes to the overall water management infrastructure in the region. While its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," regular inspections are conducted every 5 years to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the dam.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Esslinger Dam represents a significant piece of infrastructure in the local landscape, demonstrating the importance of effective flood risk reduction measures. As part of the broader network of dams and reservoirs in Nebraska, Esslinger Dam serves as a key component in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the impacts of extreme weather events and contributing to sustainable water management practices in the region. Its historical significance and ongoing role in water resource management make it a noteworthy site for those interested in the intersection of water infrastructure and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ELK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
98 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Esslinger Dam