Jester-Herman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Nuckolls, Nebraska, the Jester-Herman Dam on TR-Walnut Creek stands as a vital structure for flood risk reduction and other purposes in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this Earth-type dam boasts a height of 22.1 feet and a length of 433 feet, providing a storage capacity of 108.7 acre-feet for the surrounding area. Despite its critical role in managing water resources, the dam's condition assessment is marked as poor, indicating the need for maintenance and potential improvements to ensure its long-term functionality.

Under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the Jester-Herman Dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Its hazard potential is classified as low, but with a condition assessment of poor, there is a pressing need to address any deficiencies to enhance its resilience and effectiveness in safeguarding the community. While the dam's structural integrity may raise concerns, its significance in flood risk reduction underscores the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to uphold water resource management efforts and climate resilience in the region.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Jester-Herman Dam serves as a crucial asset in mitigating flood risks and supporting water storage needs in Nuckolls, Nebraska. With its location on TR-Walnut Creek and association with the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam plays a pivotal role in enhancing the region's water security. As efforts are made to address its poor condition assessment and ensure its long-term functionality, the Jester-Herman Dam remains a key player in the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation in the area.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

433

Dam Height

22.1

River Or Stream

TR-WALNUT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.6

Hydraulic Height

22.1

Drainage Area

0.43

Nid Storage

108.7

Structural Height

22.1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.