Mattson Enterprises Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Located in Buffalo County, Nebraska, the Mattson Enterprises Dam stands as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the TR-South Loup River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1960, this private-owned earth dam boasts a height of 12.8 feet and a length of 185 feet, providing a storage capacity of 75.3 acre-feet for the surrounding area. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness.

The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a vital line of defense against potential inundation in the region. Positioned within the jurisdiction of the NE DNR and situated in Congressional District 03, Nebraska, the Mattson Enterprises Dam plays a significant role in managing water resources and mitigating the impact of extreme weather events on the local community. Despite not having an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place or a risk assessment conducted, the dam continues to be monitored regularly to uphold safety standards and address any potential risks that may arise.

With its strategic location and crucial function in safeguarding the area against flooding, the Mattson Enterprises Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to manage water resources and climate-related challenges in Nebraska. As a key piece of infrastructure in the region, the dam underscores the importance of proactive maintenance, regulatory oversight, and emergency preparedness to ensure the safety and well-being of the surrounding residents and properties in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

185

Dam Height

12.8

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH LOUP RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.3

Hydraulic Height

12.8

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

75.3

Structural Height

12.8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.