Harding Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Shifflet Dam Kubik Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Harding Dam, located in Cambridge, Nebraska, is a private-owned structure on the Little Medicine Creek that serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 17.2 feet, with a hydraulic height of 13.6 feet, and a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality.
The dam's primary purpose goes beyond flood risk reduction, highlighting its importance in managing water resources in the area. With a normal storage capacity of 39.5 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 6.9 acres, Harding Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding environment and communities from potential water-related hazards. The dam's location in Furnas County, Nebraska, coupled with its association with the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, underscores its significance in water management efforts in the region.
While the dam's condition assessment remains ungraded as of the last inspection in October 2018, its consistent adherence to state regulations and inspection protocols ensures that it continues to operate effectively. With its strategic positioning on Little Medicine Creek and its contribution to water resource management in the area, Harding Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for both flood control and environmental preservation in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
220 |
Dam Height |
17.2 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE MEDICINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
13.6 |
Drainage Area |
2.05 |
Nid Storage |
69 |
Structural Height |
17.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Harding Dam