Summary
With a height of 10.1 feet and a length of 590 feet, this earth dam serves various purposes including flood risk reduction and storage of water. It has a normal storage capacity of 29.2 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 77.4 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 8.6 acres and draining an area of 57.44 square miles.
Despite being state-regulated and inspected by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Freehling Dam has a poor condition assessment as of July 2018, posing a low hazard potential. The structure lacks emergency action preparedness and has not undergone recent risk assessments or management measures. Situated in Congressional District 03, Nebraska, the dam is overseen by the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers but has not received federal funding or intervention.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Freehling Dam intriguing due to its critical role in flood mitigation and water storage in the region. The dam's condition assessment and lack of emergency preparedness highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety. With its location on Buffalo Creek and the potential risks associated with its poor condition, Freehling Dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for proper management and upkeep of vital water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
590 |
Dam Height |
10.1 |
River Or Stream |
BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
10.1 |
Drainage Area |
57.44 |
Nid Storage |
77.4 |
Structural Height |
10.1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Freehling Dam