Nielsen Dam 3823 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Olson Dam 1270 Miller Dam 9242
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Nielsen Dam 3823, located in Kearney, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the TR-Little Blue River.
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Summary
Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 13.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 84.5 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 17.2 acre-feet. The dam spans 270 feet in length and covers a surface area of 5.9 acres, serving as a vital line of defense against potential flooding in the region.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Nielsen Dam 3823 has been designated as a low hazard structure with a condition assessment that is currently not rated. While the dam has not undergone recent modifications, it is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and effectiveness in mitigating flood risks. With a mandated inspection frequency of 10 years, the dam is equipped to handle potential emergencies, although specific emergency action plans and risk assessments are not documented at this time.
Despite its modest stature and low hazard potential, Nielsen Dam 3823 remains a critical asset in safeguarding the surrounding area from flood events. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures becomes increasingly vital in protecting communities and infrastructure from the unpredictable forces of nature.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
13.5 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
13.5 |
Drainage Area |
1.01 |
Nid Storage |
84.5 |
Structural Height |
13.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River Near Kearney
|
1810cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1190cfs |
Republican River Near Orleans
|
59cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Republican River At Guide Rock
|
35cfs |
Sappa Creek Near Stamford
|
4cfs |
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.
Nielsen Dam 3823