Hays Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hays Dam, located in Furnas, Nebraska, along the TR-TURKEY CREEK, was completed in 1960 and serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the area.
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Summary
Owned and regulated by a private entity, the dam stands at a height of 14.2 feet with a storage capacity of 102.5 acre-feet, providing valuable protection to the surrounding community. Despite its importance, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential improvements to ensure its long-term functionality.
With a surface area of 15.1 acres and a drainage area of 3.22 square miles, Hays Dam plays a vital role in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region. While its hazard potential is considered low, ongoing inspections and enforcement by the NE DNR are essential to address the dam's current condition and ensure its resilience against potential threats. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and support efforts to maintain and enhance the functionality of Hays Dam to safeguard both property and lives from flooding events.
As enthusiasts passionate about water resources and climate resilience, understanding the significance of structures like Hays Dam in flood risk reduction is essential. By advocating for regular maintenance, inspection, and potential upgrades to improve its condition, we can contribute to the overall safety and sustainability of the dam and its surrounding environment. Collaboration with regulatory agencies and stakeholders is vital to ensure the effective management of Hays Dam and its continued ability to protect the community from the impacts of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
14.2 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TURKEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
14.2 |
Drainage Area |
3.22 |
Nid Storage |
102.5 |
Structural Height |
14.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sappa Creek Near Stamford
|
4cfs |
Beaver Creek Near Beaver City
|
1cfs |
Republican River Near Orleans
|
59cfs |
Republican River At Cambridge
|
60cfs |
Sappa C Nr Lyle
|
1cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1040cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Hays Dam