Edward Dewispelare Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dewispelare Dam Brezina Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Located in Butler, Nebraska, the Edward Dewispelare Dam stands as a vital structure along the TR-Platte River, serving a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Built in 1980, this private-owned dam spans 470 meters in length and reaches a height of 21.9 meters, with a storage capacity of 104.8 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment was reported as poor during the last inspection in June 2017.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the Edward Dewispelare Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding. With a state-regulated and permitted status, the dam undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. As a fundamental component of the region's water resource infrastructure, the dam's significance in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks cannot be understated.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of structures like the Edward Dewispelare Dam is essential in comprehending the broader implications of water management and climate resilience. With its strategic location, design specifications, and regulatory framework, this dam exemplifies the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and disaster preparedness in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the impacts of extreme weather events and changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
21.9 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PLATTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
21.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.9 |
Nid Storage |
104.8 |
Structural Height |
21.9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River At North Bend
|
4920cfs |
Shell Creek Near Columbus
|
87cfs |
Clear Cr 1.75mi W Of Polk Co Line
|
15cfs |
Platte River Near Duncan
|
243cfs |
Wahoo Creek At Ithaca
|
53cfs |
Maple Creek Near Nickerson
|
37cfs |
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.
Edward Dewispelare Dam