Schmelzer Dam
Key Takeaway
Schmelzer Dam is classified as low hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 10.3% in NE) |
| Dam Length | 565 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 53 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 53 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1950 (76 years old) |
| NID ID | NE08514 |
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
Betty Jean Schmelzer
Private
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Significant Hazard 71 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Schmelzer Dam?
Schmelzer 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 Schmelzer Dam?
Schmelzer Dam is owned by Betty Jean Schmelzer (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Schmelzer Dam built?
Schmelzer Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Schmelzer Dam?
Schmelzer 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 Schmelzer Dam?
Schmelzer Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Schmelzer Dam last inspected?
Schmelzer Dam was last inspected on May 28, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.