Seward Land Enterprises Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Seward Land Enterprises Dam, located in Seward, Nebraska, along the TR-W FK BIG BLUE RIVER, is a private-owned structure designed for flood risk reduction among other purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 2000, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 19.8 feet and stretches across 480 feet, providing a storage capacity of 101 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and not yet rated condition assessment, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating potential risks in the region.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NE DNR), the Seward Land Enterprises Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Situated within the jurisdiction of the state, this dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in the area. Despite not having a spillway or outlet gates, the dam's primary purpose remains clear - to reduce flood risks and support other water-related activities in the region. With its strategic location and operational capabilities, the Seward Land Enterprises Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management in Nebraska.

Congressional District 01, represented by Jeff Fortenberry (R), benefits from the presence of the Seward Land Enterprises Dam, which ensures the protection of surrounding areas from potential flooding events. With a storage capacity of 101 acre-feet and a normal storage of 52.3 acre-feet, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure component in the region's water resource management system. As climate change continues to impact water availability and extreme weather events, the role of dams like Seward Land Enterprises becomes increasingly important in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from potential risks and hazards.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

19.8

River Or Stream

TR-W FK BIG BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.25

Hydraulic Height

19.8

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

101

Structural Height

19.8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.