Bushnell West Cat Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nelson Dam 755 James Dam 2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bushnell West Cat Dam, located in Kimball, Nebraska, is a vital structure managed by the local government to regulate the flow of TR-LODGEPOLE CREEK.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1988 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at 27 feet high and serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 212.1 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Bushnell West Cat Dam undergoes regular inspections by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam's spillway type, outlet gates, and emergency action plan details are currently unspecified, but the local government remains vigilant in maintaining the dam's safety measures. Its location in a rural area emphasizes the importance of effective water resource management to mitigate potential risks and protect the surrounding community from adverse impacts of climate change.
As climate change continues to pose challenges for water resource management, Bushnell West Cat Dam stands as a critical infrastructure providing flood protection and water storage in Nebraska. With its design by the USDA NRCS and oversight by the Nebraska DNR, the dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the region against potential disasters. By staying proactive in monitoring and maintaining the dam, local authorities ensure the safety and resilience of the community in the face of evolving climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1988 |
Dam Length |
1270 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LODGEPOLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.76 |
Hydraulic Height |
25.62 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
212.1 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
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.
Bushnell West Cat Dam