Wilber Watershed Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The Wilber Watershed Dam, located in Wilber, Nebraska, is a key piece of infrastructure designed by HDR Engineering, Inc.


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Summary

to address flood risk reduction along the TR-BIG BLUE RIVER. Completed in 2013, this earth dam stands at a height of 27.8 feet and has a storage capacity of 400.5 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a vital resource for the local government to protect the community from potential water-related disasters.

Managed and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the Wilber Watershed Dam is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its effective operation. With a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2020, the dam's hazard potential is classified as high, emphasizing the critical role it plays in safeguarding the surrounding area. Despite the lack of a spillway type specified, the dam's structural design and stone core foundation contribute to its reliable performance in controlling water flow and mitigating flood risks.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Wilber Watershed Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of government agencies, engineers, and local communities in enhancing water management infrastructure. As a focal point for flood risk reduction in Saline County, Nebraska, this earth dam serves as a vital component of the region's resilience against natural disasters, highlighting the importance of proactive water resource management in safeguarding communities and promoting sustainable development.

Year Completed

2013

Dam Length

1020

Dam Height

27.8

River Or Stream

TR-BIG BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.64

Hydraulic Height

26.68

Drainage Area

0.85

Nid Storage

400.5

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.