West Water Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
West Water Creek Dam is classified as significant hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 1976 and is 50 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 53 ft (taller than 97.3% in NE) |
| Dam Length | 1,060 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 46 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 8,851 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1976 (50 years old) |
| NID ID | NE01771 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Morrill County Board
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Blackburn Dam
Morrill, NE
Significant Hazard 27 ftDavidson Dam
Morrill, NE
Low Hazard 30 ftWildhorse 9-A
Morrill, NE
Low Hazard 54 ftLoomis Dam
Morrill, NE
Low Hazard 20 ftWildhorse 5-A
Morrill, NE
High Hazard 42 ftFz Dam 1224
Morrill, NE
Low Hazard 36 ftWildhorse 14-A
Morrill, NE
High Hazard 45 ftRoss Canyon Dam
Morrill, NE
Significant Hazard 42 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of West Water Creek Dam?
West Water Creek Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates West Water Creek Dam?
West Water Creek Dam is owned by Morrill County Board (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was West Water Creek Dam built?
West Water Creek Dam was completed in 1976, making it 50 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 West Water Creek Dam?
West Water Creek 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 West Water Creek Dam?
West Water Creek Dam has a dam height of 53 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 West Water Creek Dam last inspected?
West Water Creek Dam was last inspected on March 20, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.