Todd Mertes Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Todd Mertes Dam is a privately owned structure located in Nemaha, Nebraska, along TR-DUCK CREEK.


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Summary

Completed in 2013 for the primary purpose of grade stabilization, this earth dam stands at a height of 33.2 feet, with a structural height of 36.65 feet and a length of 340 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 50.5 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 120 cubic feet per second, serving as a vital component in managing water resources in the area.

Maintained by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Todd Mertes Dam is classified as having low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition based on the latest inspection in June 2020. With a drainage area of 0.29 square miles and a storage capacity of 73.3 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water management in the region. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated and permitted by the state, ensuring its compliance with safety and environmental standards.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate Todd Mertes Dam for its contribution to grade stabilization and water storage in Nemaha, Nebraska. With its strategic location and design features, this earth dam serves as a key infrastructure for managing water flow along TR-DUCK CREEK, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

2013

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

33.2

River Or Stream

TR-DUCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.9

Hydraulic Height

33.13

Drainage Area

0.29

Nid Storage

73.3

Structural Height

36.65

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.