Oliver Dam
Key Takeaway
Oliver Dam is classified as high hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 1910 and is 116 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 48 ft (taller than 95.6% in NE) |
| Dam Length | 5,800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 8.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 264 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,204 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 22,107 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1910 (116 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2019 |
| NID ID | NE00749 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
South Platte Natural Resources District
Local Government
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Low Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Oliver Dam?
Oliver Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Oliver Dam?
Oliver Dam is owned by South Platte Natural Resources District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Oliver Dam built?
Oliver Dam was completed in 1910, making it 116 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 Oliver Dam?
Oliver 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 Oliver Dam?
Oliver Dam has a dam height of 48 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 Oliver Dam last inspected?
Oliver Dam was last inspected on August 16, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.