Raasch Dam

TR-N FK ELKHORN RIVER· Madison, Nebraska· Built 1977· Earth· 30 ft tall
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Raasch Dam is classified as high hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 1977 and is 49 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 30 ft (taller than 66.9% in NE)
Dam Length625 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage384 acre-ft
Normal Storage26 acre-ft
Surface Area7 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge3,890 cfs
Year Completed1977 (49 years old)
NID IDNE01184

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: May 11, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NE DNR

Ownership

City of Norfolk

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Raasch Dam?

Raasch 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 Raasch Dam?

Raasch Dam is owned by City of Norfolk (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Raasch Dam built?

Raasch Dam was completed in 1977, making it 49 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 Raasch Dam?

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

How tall is Raasch Dam?

Raasch Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Raasch Dam last inspected?

Raasch Dam was last inspected on May 11, 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.