Zahn Dam

TR-S FK LITTLE NEMAHA RIVER· Otoe, Nebraska· Built 1952· Earth· 32 ft tall
Low Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Private

Key Takeaway

Zahn Dam is classified as low hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 1952 and is 74 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction.

Physical Details

Dam Height 32 ft (taller than 73.9% in NE)
Dam Length455 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage147 acre-ft
Normal Storage9 acre-ft
Surface Area2 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge730 cfs
Year Completed1952 (74 years old)
NID IDNE00370

Safety Information

Low Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 15, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NE DNR

Ownership

Sarah S Krause Trust

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Zahn Dam?

Zahn 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 Zahn Dam?

Zahn Dam is owned by Sarah S Krause Trust (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Zahn Dam built?

Zahn Dam was completed in 1952, making it 74 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 Zahn Dam?

Zahn 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 Zahn Dam?

Zahn Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Zahn Dam last inspected?

Zahn Dam was last inspected on June 15, 2021. 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.