Lothrop Dam

TR-BIG BLUE RIVER· Saline, Nebraska· Built 1935· Earth· 24 ft tall
Significant Hazard Other Flood Risk Reduction Private

Key Takeaway

Lothrop Dam is classified as significant hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 24 ft (taller than 42.8% in NE)
Dam Length340 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage63 acre-ft
Normal Storage33 acre-ft
Surface Area6 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge175 cfs
Year Completed1935 (91 years old)
NID IDNE01501

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: August 8, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NE DNR

Ownership

Lothrop Family Trust

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lothrop Dam?

Lothrop Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lothrop Dam?

Lothrop Dam is owned by Lothrop Family Trust (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lothrop Dam built?

Lothrop Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Lothrop Dam?

Lothrop Dam serves the following purposes: Other, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Lothrop Dam?

Lothrop Dam has a dam height of 24 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Lothrop Dam last inspected?

Lothrop Dam was last inspected on August 8, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.