Arlen Grotrian Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Arlen Grotrian Dam, located in Nemaha, Nebraska, along the TR-PIPER CREEK, was completed in 2008 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet, with a hydraulic height of 18.52 feet and a structural height of 28.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 153 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 3.2 acres and serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NE DNR), the Arlen Grotrian Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in May 2016. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 19 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 58 cubic feet per second. Despite its relatively small drainage area of 0.57 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region.

As an essential infrastructure for flood control in the area, the Arlen Grotrian Dam serves as a vital resource for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its strategic location and design contribute to the overall water management efforts in Nemaha County, ensuring the safety and security of local communities during periods of heightened flood risk.

Year Completed

2008

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-PIPER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.2

Hydraulic Height

18.52

Drainage Area

0.57

Nid Storage

153

Structural Height

28.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.