Nilson Dam
Key Takeaway
Nilson Dam is classified as low hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 years old. Its primary use is irrigation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 63 ft (taller than 98.8% in NE) |
| Dam Length | 641 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 324 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 192 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 15 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 88 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1980 (46 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2011 |
| NID ID | NE01738 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
West Rio Land & Cattle Company
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Nilson Dam?
Nilson Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Nilson Dam?
Nilson Dam is owned by West Rio Land & Cattle Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nilson Dam built?
Nilson Dam was completed in 1980, making it 46 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 Nilson Dam?
Nilson Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Nilson Dam?
Nilson Dam has a dam height of 63 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 Nilson Dam last inspected?
Nilson Dam was last inspected on May 15, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.