Upper Big Nemaha J-37 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Upper Big Nemaha J-37 is a key water resource structure located in Johnson County, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and serves purposes of flood risk reduction and other water management functions. With a normal storage capacity of 32 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.7 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the TR-Hooker Creek.
Managed by the local government, Upper Big Nemaha J-37 has a significant hazard potential and is classified as being in fair condition as per the last inspection in April 2019. With a structural height of 27 feet and a length of 725 feet, this dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 430 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, this dam continues to provide vital water management services in the region, reflecting the importance of effective infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources.
As a part of the broader water infrastructure network in Nebraska, Upper Big Nemaha J-37 highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure the resilience of water resources in the face of changing climatic conditions. With a focus on flood risk reduction and water management, this dam represents a key component in the state's strategy for sustainable water resource management. By staying regulated, inspected, and maintained, structures like Upper Big Nemaha J-37 play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring the long-term availability of water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
725 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-HOOKER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
132 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Upper Big Nemaha J-37