Hayes Feed Yard Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hayes Feed Yard Dam in Polk, Nebraska, is a privately-owned structure that plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the TR-Clear Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 23.9 feet and has a storage capacity of 189 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 39.4 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 was reported as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its continued effectiveness in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Hayes Feed Yard Dam is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. The dam's primary purpose, aside from flood risk reduction, is listed as "Other," indicating potential additional benefits or uses beyond its main function. Located within Congressional District 01 of Nebraska, this dam is an important part of the local water resource infrastructure, providing essential protection to the community and surrounding areas from water-related hazards.

With its modest dimensions and relatively low risk level, Hayes Feed Yard Dam serves as a vital component of the water management system in Polk County, Nebraska. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, maintaining and potentially improving the condition of this dam will be essential for ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding communities. Through ongoing monitoring, inspections, and potential upgrades, Hayes Feed Yard Dam will continue to play a key role in protecting against flooding and managing water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

23.9

River Or Stream

TR-CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.9

Hydraulic Height

23.9

Drainage Area

0.84

Nid Storage

189

Structural Height

23.9

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.