Wagon Train Dam

HICKMAN BRANCH SALT CREEK· Lancaster, Nebraska· Built 1963· Earth·
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Fish And Wildlife Pond Recreation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Wagon Train Dam is classified as high hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 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 Length2,920 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage15.1K acre-ft
Normal Storage2.6K acre-ft
Surface Area315 acres
Drainage Area16 sq mi
Max Discharge23,210 cfs
Year Completed1963 (63 years old)
NID IDNE01056

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: May 5, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NE DNR

Ownership

USACE - Omaha District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Wagon Train Dam?

Wagon Train 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 Wagon Train Dam?

Wagon Train Dam is owned by USACE - Omaha District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Wagon Train Dam built?

Wagon Train Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Wagon Train Dam?

Wagon Train Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Wagon Train Dam last inspected?

Wagon Train Dam was last inspected on May 5, 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.