Stoelting Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Stoelting Dam, situated in Harlan, Nebraska, along the Milrose Creek, stands as a private structure designed primarily for flood risk reduction.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1960, this earth-type dam boasts a height of 11.2 feet and a storage capacity of 53.4 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 1.63 square miles. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment yet to be rated, this dam remains under the regulatory oversight of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement measures are in place.
Managed by private owners, Stoelting Dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Despite its modest size and structural design, the dam effectively controls water flow along the Milrose Creek, providing essential flood risk mitigation for the community of Orleans. Its strategic location and operational effectiveness underscore its importance in maintaining the integrity of local water resources and protecting downstream areas from potential inundation.
As a vital component of the flood control infrastructure in the region, Stoelting Dam epitomizes the collaborative efforts between private owners and state regulatory agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. While its condition remains unassessed, the dam's operational efficiency and low hazard potential affirm its role in safeguarding against flooding risks along the Milrose Creek. With regular inspections and enforcement in place, Stoelting Dam continues to serve as a reliable and essential resource for water management and climate resilience in Harlan County, Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
210 |
Dam Height |
11.2 |
River Or Stream |
MILROSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
7.6 |
Drainage Area |
1.63 |
Nid Storage |
53.4 |
Structural Height |
11.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Republican River Near Orleans
|
59cfs |
Sappa Creek Near Stamford
|
4cfs |
Prairie Dog C Nr Woodruff
|
0cfs |
Beaver Creek Near Beaver City
|
1cfs |
Sappa C Nr Lyle
|
1cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1190cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Orleans City RV Park
|
||
George Mitchell RV Park
|
||
Methodist Cove - Harlan County Lake
|
Stoelting Dam