John Janecek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Huneke Dam Wilber Watershed Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
John Janecek Dam, located in Wilber, Nebraska, along the TR-BIG BLUE RIVER, serves as a crucial structure for flood risk reduction in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 2011, this private-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 22.2 feet and has a storage capacity of 53.3 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 10.6 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 rated it as poor, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and improvement efforts.
Operated under the supervision of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, John Janecek Dam's inspection frequency is set at 5 years, with the last assessment conducted in May 2017. The dam's significance lies in its role as a protective barrier against potential flooding, safeguarding the surrounding Saline County area. The dam's location within Congressional District 03, Nebraska, underscores its importance in mitigating flood risks and ensuring the safety and well-being of local communities.
Although John Janecek Dam faces challenges in terms of its poor condition assessment, the dam continues to play a vital role in flood risk reduction efforts in Nebraska. With ongoing inspections and potential maintenance measures, there is an opportunity to enhance the dam's structural integrity and resilience, ensuring its continued effectiveness in protecting the region from potential water-related disasters. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, John Janecek Dam serves as a compelling example of the critical infrastructure needed to address the impacts of climate change on water resources and the environment.
Year Completed |
2011 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
22.2 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
22.2 |
Drainage Area |
1.13 |
Nid Storage |
53.3 |
Structural Height |
22.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
John Janecek Dam
Clatonia Public Use Area