William Robertson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
William Robertson Dam, located in Custer County, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and water resource management.
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Summary
Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 12.8 feet and has a storage capacity of 98.3 acre-feet. It is situated on Spring Creek and is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 revealed poor conditions, indicating a need for maintenance and improvement. With a history of periodic inspections and a designated emergency action plan, the dam is monitored for safety and compliance. The structure's primary purpose, along with its significant role in the local water management system, underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and reliability.
As a key infrastructure in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the area, William Robertson Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the local ecosystem. Its location within the Kansas City District and oversight by state regulatory agencies highlight the collaborative efforts to ensure its effectiveness and safety. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate conservation can appreciate the dam's historical significance and its vital contribution to the region's water management efforts.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
324 |
Dam Height |
12.8 |
River Or Stream |
SPRING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.8 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
98.3 |
Structural Height |
12.8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
511cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
377cfs |
South Platte River At North Platte
|
1290cfs |
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.
William Robertson Dam