Bonham Dam 3403 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bonham Dam 3403, located in Franklin, Nebraska, along the TR-Big Cottonwood Creek, is a privately owned structure designed for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 23.2 meters and has a storage capacity of 63.9 million cubic meters. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, with the last inspection in May 2017 highlighting the need for maintenance and improvements.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Bonham Dam 3403 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. However, its poor condition raises concerns about its ability to withstand future challenges. With a drainage area of 0.64 square kilometers and a normal storage capacity of 11.5 million cubic meters, this dam is essential for maintaining the safety and security of the community it serves.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Bonham Dam 3403 is vital for ensuring the sustainable management of water resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change. By recognizing the importance of infrastructure like this dam and advocating for its maintenance and improvement, we can contribute to the resilience of our communities in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

23.2

River Or Stream

TR- BIG COTTONWOOD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.2

Hydraulic Height

23.2

Drainage Area

0.64

Nid Storage

63.9

Structural Height

23.2

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.