Niobrara S Park Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Niobrara S Park Dam, located in Knox, Nebraska, stands as a testament to effective state regulation and oversight in managing water resources.
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Summary
Completed in 2002, this earth dam on the Niobrara River serves a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, highlighting its crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential disasters. With a height of 55 feet and a length of 748 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 158 acre-feet, providing vital protection for the community.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Niobrara S Park Dam has been deemed to have low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition, as confirmed by the latest inspection in April 2020. The dam's significant role in flood risk reduction is further underscored by its ability to discharge up to 3346 cubic feet per second, ensuring efficient water flow and management during periods of high water levels. With state jurisdiction and regulatory authority firmly in place, the dam stands as a resilient structure in the face of climate challenges and changing water resource dynamics.
As a critical infrastructure in the region, Niobrara S Park Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With a focus on state-led initiatives and effective regulation, the dam exemplifies the importance of proactive measures in mitigating flood risks and ensuring the safety and security of local communities. Its role in maintaining normal storage levels and effectively managing water flow underscores its significance in the broader context of water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
2002 |
Dam Length |
748 |
Dam Height |
55 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NIOBRARA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
55 |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
158 |
Structural Height |
63 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
63 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bazile Creek Near Niobrara
|
192cfs |
Ponca Creek At Verdel
|
23cfs |
Verdigre C Nr Verdigre
|
206cfs |
Niobrara River Nr. Verdel
|
517cfs |
Bazile Creek At Center
|
85cfs |
James R Near Scotland Sd
|
706cfs |
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.
Niobrara S Park Dam
Niobrara Landing