Sutherland

North & South Platte· Lincoln, Nebraska· Built 1935· Gravity· 30 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Irrigation Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Sutherland is classified as high hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 Length34,100 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage65.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage50.0K acre-ft
Surface Area3,050 acres
Year Completed1935 (91 years old)
NID IDNE01051

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: June 22, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NE DNR

Ownership

Nebraska Public Power District

Public Utility

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Sutherland?

Sutherland 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 Sutherland?

Sutherland is owned by Nebraska Public Power District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Sutherland built?

Sutherland 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 Sutherland?

Sutherland serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Sutherland?

Sutherland 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 Sutherland last inspected?

Sutherland was last inspected on June 22, 2022. 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.