Packer Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: King Dam Bailey Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Packer Dam, located in Gosper, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction and other water management purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 7.6 meters and has a storage capacity of 72.4 million cubic meters, with a normal storage level of 46.4 million cubic meters. Situated on Turkey Creek, the dam covers a surface area of 10.15 hectares and serves a drainage area of 2.18 square kilometers.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Packer Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment since the last inspection in March 2017. While the dam has not undergone any modifications over the years, it is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations. With a designated emergency action plan and contact information in place, Packer Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region, contributing to the overall safety and well-being of the surrounding community.
In the expansive landscape of water resource management, Packer Dam stands as a testament to the collaboration between private ownership and state regulatory agencies in safeguarding water resources and mitigating flood risks. As a cornerstone of infrastructure in Nebraska's water management system, Packer Dam exemplifies the importance of proactive monitoring, maintenance, and emergency preparedness in ensuring the resilience of water structures in the face of changing climatic conditions. Its strategic location, design features, and operational effectiveness make it a vital component in the region's efforts to adapt to the challenges posed by a changing climate and unpredictable water flow patterns.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
7.6 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TURKEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.15 |
Hydraulic Height |
7.6 |
Drainage Area |
2.18 |
Nid Storage |
72.4 |
Structural Height |
7.6 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River Near Overton
|
1040cfs |
Sappa Creek Near Stamford
|
4cfs |
Beaver Creek Near Beaver City
|
1cfs |
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
Republican River Near Orleans
|
59cfs |
Republican River At Cambridge
|
60cfs |
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.
Packer Dam