Schmelzer Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Teel Dam Hayes Center Special Use Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Schmelzer Dam, located in Hayes, Nebraska, along the TR-RED WILLOW CREEK, was completed in 1950 with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 14.9 feet and has a length of 565 feet, providing storage of 52.8 acre-feet with a surface area of 10.8 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is marked as poor, indicating a need for potential maintenance and improvements to ensure its continued functionality.
Managed by a private owner and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the Schmelzer Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area. Situated in Congressional District 03, Nebraska, the dam's location and design reflect its commitment to protecting the surrounding community from potential water-related disasters. With a history dating back over half a century, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of human development and environmental preservation.
While the Schmelzer Dam has successfully contributed to flood risk reduction in the region, its poor condition assessment highlights the need for ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its long-term effectiveness. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the importance of well-maintained dams like Schmelzer in protecting communities from flooding becomes increasingly evident. With proper oversight and investment in dam infrastructure, the Schmelzer Dam can continue to serve as a critical resource for water management and climate resilience in Hayes, Nebraska, and beyond.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
565 |
Dam Height |
14.9 |
River Or Stream |
TR-RED WILLOW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
14.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.76 |
Nid Storage |
52.8 |
Structural Height |
14.9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Schmelzer Dam