Thomas Livestock Lagoon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Thomas Livestock Lagoon Dam, located in Dawson County, Nebraska, stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management in the heart of the Midwest.


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Summary

Completed in 2011, this private earth dam serves as a vital component in the local water infrastructure, offering a storage capacity of 56.9 acre-feet and normal storage of 41.3 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, this dam ensures the safety and security of surrounding communities while also supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the Thomas Livestock Lagoon Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow along the Dry Fork River, contributing to the overall ecological balance of the area. With a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 24 feet, this dam stands as a reliable barrier against potential flooding events, showcasing the importance of proactive infrastructure development in mitigating climate-related risks. Additionally, the dam's stone core and soil foundation add to its structural integrity, further emphasizing its value as a sustainable water management asset.

As a privately owned structure, the Thomas Livestock Lagoon Dam exemplifies the intersection of environmental stewardship and agricultural practices. With regular inspections and a designated emergency action plan in place, this dam not only ensures the efficient utilization of water resources but also underscores the importance of proactive risk management in the face of changing climatic conditions. By embodying resilience and sustainability, this dam stands as a shining example of effective water resource management in the midst of a dynamic and evolving landscape.

Year Completed

2011

Dam Length

2260

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

DRY FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

0.03

Nid Storage

56.9

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.