Hemelstrand Farms Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hemelstrand Farms Dam, located in Edison, Nebraska, along the Big Antelope Creek, was completed in 1970 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans 385 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 67.2 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.22 square miles, the dam serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 revealed poor conditions, prompting the need for further inspections and potential maintenance or repairs. With a history of state inspections, permitting, and enforcement, Hemelstrand Farms Dam remains a critical infrastructure for flood control in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the importance of maintaining and improving such structures becomes increasingly vital for the safety and well-being of local communities.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Hemelstrand Farms Dam in mitigating flood risks and protecting water resources is essential. By staying informed about the condition, regulation, and purpose of such structures, enthusiasts can advocate for proper maintenance and investment in these vital pieces of infrastructure to ensure their continued effectiveness in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

385

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Big Antelope Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.3

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

1.22

Nid Storage

67.2

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

18
       
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.