Richard Farwell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Richard Farwell Dam, located in Pawnee, Nebraska, serves as a crucial asset in flood risk reduction along the TR-NEGRO BRANCH river.


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Summary

Completed in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet and spans 560 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 74.4 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.8 acres, the dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its importance, the dam is currently rated as having a poor condition assessment, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential upgrades. The hazard potential is classified as low, but regular inspections are conducted by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to ensure the dam's safety and functionality. With the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Richard Farwell Dam underscores the critical role that infrastructure plays in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the status and significance of dams like Richard Farwell Dam is essential in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the increasing threats of extreme weather events. By staying informed about the condition and functionality of such structures, we can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources and adaptation to a changing climate in Nebraska and beyond.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

TR-NEGRO BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.8

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

0.47

Nid Storage

74.4

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

36
       
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.
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