Vyhnalek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Vyhnalek Dam in Seward, Nebraska, stands as a crucial structure designed for flood risk reduction along TR-Middle Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1993, this earth dam reaches a height of 31.7 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 25.8 acre-feet, serving as a key protective barrier for the surrounding area. Despite its essential role in flood control, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, highlighting the need for regular maintenance and inspection to ensure its continued effectiveness.

Managed by a private entity, Vyhnalek Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, with state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement all in place to uphold safety standards. The dam's low hazard potential underscores its importance in safeguarding the local community against potential flooding events. While it may require improvements to enhance its structural integrity and overall condition, Vyhnalek Dam remains a critical component in the region's water resource management efforts.

Located within the Kansas City District and Congressional District 01 of Nebraska, Vyhnalek Dam is a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and state agencies in addressing flood risk within the area. With its strategic positioning and design, this earth dam not only contributes to flood control but also serves as a vital asset in water resource and climate resilience initiatives. Efforts to maintain and improve the dam will be crucial in ensuring its long-term effectiveness in protecting the community and surrounding environment from potential water-related hazards.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

31.7

River Or Stream

TR-MIDDLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

31.7

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

25.8

Structural Height

31.7

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.