Sullwold Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Sullwold Dam, located in Buffalo County, Nebraska, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1960 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Turkey Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 8.7 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 89.1 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 26 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and not yet rated in terms of condition assessment, the dam remains a vital infrastructure for managing water resources in the area.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Sullwold Dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam spans 276 feet in length and covers a surface area of 8.9 acres, serving a drainage area of 2.48 square miles. Despite not having an established spillway type or width, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding community from potential water-related disasters.

While the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently unknown, Sullwold Dam remains a key component in the local water management infrastructure. With its strategic location along Turkey Creek and its historical significance in flood risk reduction, this earth dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environment, and public safety.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

276

Dam Height

8.7

River Or Stream

TR-TURKEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.9

Hydraulic Height

8.7

Drainage Area

2.48

Nid Storage

89.1

Structural Height

8.7

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

9
       
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.