Williamson Irrigation Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Reiman Dam 1 Keller Dam 1785
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
The Williamson Irrigation Dam, located in Niobrara, Boyd County, Nebraska, plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the TR-Keya Paha River.
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Summary
Completed in 2016, this earth dam stands at a height of 30.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 128.4 acre-feet. With a satisfactory condition assessment and low hazard potential, the dam provides essential protection to the surrounding area while also serving as a valuable water resource for irrigation purposes.
Managed by a private owner, the Williamson Irrigation Dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's primary purpose of flood risk reduction is evident through its design and construction, which includes a stone core and soil foundation. With a drainage area of 1.48 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 241 cubic feet per second, the dam effectively controls water flow and minimizes the risk of flooding in the region.
As a key component of water management in Nebraska, the Williamson Irrigation Dam stands as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change. With its strategic location and reliable performance, this dam not only protects the local community from potential disasters but also highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
2016 |
Dam Length |
687 |
Dam Height |
30.7 |
River Or Stream |
TR-KEYA PAHA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
29.6 |
Drainage Area |
1.48 |
Nid Storage |
128.4 |
Structural Height |
41.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1530cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
188cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Niobrara River Nr. Verdel
|
517cfs |
Ponca Creek At Verdel
|
23cfs |
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.
Williamson Irrigation Dam