Kenney Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Kenney Dam, located in Buffalo, Nebraska, is a private-owned structure designed for flood risk reduction on the TR-Wood River.
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Summary
Built in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 14.8 feet and has a storage capacity of 85.1 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 14.5 feet. The dam spans 296 feet in length and covers a surface area of 6.1 acres, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Kenney Dam is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, the dam provides essential flood protection for the region. While the dam has not undergone recent modifications and lacks certain features like spillways and outlet gates, it remains a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure.
With its primary purpose focused on flood risk reduction, Kenney Dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the community and environment from the impacts of high water levels. As a significant structure in the region, its presence underscores the importance of proactive water resource management and climate resilience efforts to mitigate potential flood risks in the area.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
296 |
Dam Height |
14.8 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WOOD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
14.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.99 |
Nid Storage |
85.1 |
Structural Height |
14.8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1500cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
589cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1390cfs |
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
3cfs |
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.
Kenney Dam
Coot Shallows WMA