Zehr Dam, located in Buffalo County, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure primarily designed for flood risk reduction along the TR-BOXELDER CREEK. Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 276 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 55.2 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential improvements to ensure its long-term functionality.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Zehr Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to guarantee its structural integrity and public safety. The dam's primary purpose remains flood risk reduction, serving as a vital infrastructure component in mitigating potential flooding events in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the importance of maintaining and upgrading dams like Zehr becomes increasingly crucial for sustainable water management and disaster prevention efforts.

With a designated inspection frequency of five years, Zehr Dam's last assessment in April 2020 highlighted its poor condition and the need for future risk management measures. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the state of dams like Zehr is essential for understanding the challenges and opportunities in safeguarding our communities against the impacts of extreme weather events and rising water levels. As discussions around infrastructure resilience and climate adaptation strategies grow, Zehr Dam stands as a reminder of the critical role that sustainable water management plays in building a more resilient and secure future for all.