Waterford Ess Dam
Key Takeaway
Waterford Ess Dam is classified as high hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 2008 and is 18 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 | 38 ft (taller than 87.6% in NE) |
| Dam Length | 1,980 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 968 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 65 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,559 cfs |
| Year Completed | 2008 (18 years old) |
| NID ID | NE02837 |
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
Lower Platte South Natural Resources District
Local Government
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Low Hazard 31 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Waterford Ess Dam?
Waterford Ess 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 Waterford Ess Dam?
Waterford Ess Dam is owned by Lower Platte South Natural Resources District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Waterford Ess Dam built?
Waterford Ess Dam was completed in 2008, making it 18 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 Waterford Ess Dam?
Waterford Ess 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 Waterford Ess Dam?
Waterford Ess Dam has a dam height of 38 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 Waterford Ess Dam last inspected?
Waterford Ess Dam was last inspected on April 12, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.