Decker Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Decker Dam, located in Franklin, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock management, and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 14.9 feet and has a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 15.5 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.61 square miles, Decker Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Decker Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations. With a low hazard potential, this dam provides essential water storage capabilities while also supporting local wildlife and agricultural activities. The dam's location on TR-Cottonwood Creek highlights its importance in maintaining water levels and supporting the ecosystem in the area. As a key component in water resource management, Decker Dam plays a vital role in ensuring water availability for various purposes in the region.

Despite its modest size, Decker Dam plays a significant role in water management and conservation efforts in Nebraska. With its primary focus on fire protection and stock management, this dam serves as a valuable resource for the community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Decker Dam are essential in ensuring sustainable water management practices and supporting the local environment. Its strategic location and design make Decker Dam a crucial asset in maintaining water supply reliability and promoting ecosystem health in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

14.9

River Or Stream

TR-COTTONWOOD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.3

Hydraulic Height

14.9

Drainage Area

0.61

Nid Storage

65

Structural Height

14.9

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.