Melvin Anderson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Melvin Anderson Dam, located in Orleans, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.


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Summary

Built in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 11.4 feet and has a storage capacity of 70.7 acre-feet. It is designed to control School Creek and has a drainage area of 5.95 square miles, providing essential flood protection and water supply for the region.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Melvin Anderson Dam is classified as a low hazard structure with a fair condition assessment. While it has a spillway type and width unspecified, the dam has been regularly inspected, with the last assessment conducted in November 2014. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively, showcasing the importance of proper maintenance and oversight in water resource management.

The dam's location within Harlan County, Nebraska, highlights its significance in the local water infrastructure network. With its state-regulated status and adherence to inspection, permitting, and enforcement protocols, Melvin Anderson Dam stands as a testament to responsible dam ownership and operation. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this structure serves as a vital component in ensuring water security and flood control in the region, showcasing the intersection of infrastructure and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

190

Dam Height

11.4

River Or Stream

School Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.7

Hydraulic Height

11.4

Drainage Area

5.95

Nid Storage

70.7

Structural Height

11.4

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

11
       
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.