English Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

English Dam, located in Dawson County, Nebraska, is a private-owned structure primarily built for flood risk reduction along the Sand Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1960, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 22.8 feet and has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 128 acre-feet. The dam's purpose and design focus on mitigating potential flood hazards in the region, contributing to the overall water resource management efforts in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential, English Dam's condition assessment in 2017 was reported as poor, indicating a need for maintenance or rehabilitation. The dam's inspection frequency is set at 5 years, with the last inspection conducted in November 2017. The structure is regulated and permitted by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets state safety standards and is regularly monitored for compliance.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, English Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for flood control and water management in the region. Its location, design, and operational aspects highlight the importance of maintaining and upgrading dams to enhance their resilience and efficiency in safeguarding communities from potential water-related disasters. Further attention and investment in the upkeep of English Dam can contribute to sustainable water resource management practices and climate resilience efforts in the area.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

22.8

River Or Stream

SAND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Hydraulic Height

22.8

Drainage Area

5.44

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

22.8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.