Alford Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Boyd, Nebraska, the Alford Dam stands as a vital structure for fire protection, maintaining stock, and serving as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1980, this earth-type dam has a height of 26.4 feet and stretches across 610 feet, with a storage capacity of 193.6 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the TR-Ponca Creek, is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety.

Despite its low hazard potential, the Alford Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a drainage area of 1.94 square miles and a surface area of 11.1 acres, the dam provides essential water storage for various purposes. The dam's condition remains unassessed as of the last inspection in November 2019, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its functionality and safety.

As a significant structure in the St. Paul District and Congressional District 03 of Nebraska, the Alford Dam serves as a key player in the local water infrastructure. Its presence not only supports fire protection and livestock needs but also contributes to the conservation of aquatic resources in the area. With its strategic location and state-regulated status, the dam underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

610

Dam Height

26.4

River Or Stream

TR-PONCA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.1

Hydraulic Height

26.4

Drainage Area

1.94

Nid Storage

193.6

Structural Height

26.4

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.