Orris Corman Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Oil Well Dam No.1 Oil Well Dam No.2
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Orris Corman Dam, located in Dawes, Nebraska, serves as a vital irrigation structure along the Horsehead Creek.
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Summary
Managed by a private entity with oversight from the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 817 feet in length. Completed in 1994 by the USDA NRCS, the dam provides a storage capacity of 462 acre-feet for agricultural purposes, with a normal storage level of 43 acre-feet.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Orris Corman Dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan are up-to-date, reflecting a proactive approach to safeguarding the surrounding community in case of unforeseen events. With a maximum discharge capacity of 913 cubic feet per second, this essential water resource infrastructure plays a crucial role in supporting local agriculture and mitigating potential water-related risks in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Orris Corman Dam stands as a testament to effective collaboration between private owners and state regulatory agencies in managing vital irrigation infrastructure. Its strategic location, efficient design, and consistent maintenance practices underscore the importance of sustainable water management in an ever-changing climate landscape. As a key component of the region's water resource system, this dam exemplifies the intersection of engineering excellence, environmental stewardship, and community resilience in ensuring reliable access to water for agricultural needs.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
817 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
HORSEHEAD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
4.3 |
Nid Storage |
462 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Orris Corman Dam