Summary
This privately-owned earth dam stands at a height of 41.4 feet and has a storage capacity of 1037 acre-feet, providing essential water resource management for the region. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment yet to be rated, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating the 7.81 square miles of drainage area it serves.
Despite its modest size, Broken Box Dam covers a surface area of 32.6 acres and can discharge up to 7548 cubic feet per second in times of excess water flow. The dam's stone core and soil foundation contribute to its structural integrity, ensuring its ability to withstand hydraulic pressures. While the dam has not been inspected since June 2019, its operational and regulatory compliance is overseen by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, indicating a commitment to maintaining safety standards and environmental protection in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Broken Box Dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure in the region's water management system. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and water availability, the importance of well-maintained dams like Broken Box in mitigating flood risks and ensuring sustainable water usage becomes increasingly evident. With its strategic location on the Medicine Creek and its role in regulating the local ecosystem, this dam serves as a noteworthy example of the intersection between water resource management, climate resilience, and infrastructure development.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
41.4 |
River Or Stream |
MEDICINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
41.4 |
Drainage Area |
7.81 |
Nid Storage |
1037 |
Structural Height |
41.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Broken Box Dam