Ahern Dam No 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Ahern Dam No 1, located in Verdon, Nebraska, is a privately owned earth dam built for irrigation purposes on Sardine Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 2017, this dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a storage capacity of 47.4 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 28.9 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition, last assessed in May 2019.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Ahern Dam No 1 undergoes regular inspections and is regulated at the state level. With a structural height of 33.32 feet and a hydraulic height of 28.08 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the Richardson County area. Its presence ensures reliable irrigation for agricultural purposes and helps maintain a stable water supply for the surrounding community.

Despite its modest size, Ahern Dam No 1 serves as a vital component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to the sustainability of the region's agricultural activities. With its efficient design and satisfactory condition, the dam exemplifies the importance of proper maintenance and regulation in safeguarding water resources for both current and future generations.

Year Completed

2017

Dam Length

518

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Sardine Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.52

Hydraulic Height

28.08

Drainage Area

0.52

Nid Storage

47.4

Structural Height

33.32

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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.