Buffalo Lagoon Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Buffalo Lagoon Dam, located in Dawson County, Nebraska, is a privately-owned structure that serves multiple purposes related to water resource management.
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Summary
Completed in 2008, this earthen dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans 400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Buffalo Creek and is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, with regular inspections and enforcement ensuring its satisfactory condition and low hazard potential.
This dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and protecting surrounding areas from potential flooding, with a normal storage capacity of 43 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, Buffalo Lagoon Dam is designed to effectively manage water flow and mitigate risks, with a designated inspection frequency of 10 years to ensure its continued functionality. The dam's location in a rural setting underscores its importance in supporting agricultural operations and wildlife habitat in the region.
As a key component of water resource management in Nebraska, Buffalo Lagoon Dam exemplifies the intersection of environmental stewardship and infrastructure development. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam represents a sustainable approach to water storage and flood control. Climate and water enthusiasts will appreciate the dam's design and purpose, as well as its role in maintaining the ecological balance of Buffalo Creek and the surrounding watershed.
Year Completed |
2008 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
11 |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1870cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1370cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
1570cfs |
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.
Buffalo Lagoon Dam