Candlewood Dam
Key Takeaway
Candlewood Dam is classified as high hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 1973 and is 53 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 57 ft (taller than 98.3% in NE) |
| Dam Length | 930 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 573 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 15,630 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1973 (53 years old) |
| NID ID | NE00138 |
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
Papio Missouri River Natural Resources District
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 40 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Candlewood Dam?
Candlewood 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 Candlewood Dam?
Candlewood Dam is owned by Papio Missouri River Natural Resources District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Candlewood Dam built?
Candlewood Dam was completed in 1973, making it 53 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 Candlewood Dam?
Candlewood Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Candlewood Dam?
Candlewood Dam has a dam height of 57 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 Candlewood Dam last inspected?
Candlewood Dam was last inspected on November 2, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.