Willow Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Willow Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 1983 and is 43 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 | 58 ft (taller than 98.4% in NE) |
| Dam Length | 2,930 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 30.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 6.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 715 acres |
| Drainage Area | 210 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 41,220 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1983 (43 years old) |
| NID ID | NE02134 |
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 Elkhorn Natural Resources District
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Willow Creek Dam?
Willow Creek 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 Willow Creek Dam?
Willow Creek Dam is owned by Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Willow Creek Dam built?
Willow Creek Dam was completed in 1983, making it 43 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 Willow Creek Dam?
Willow 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 Willow Creek Dam?
Willow Creek Dam has a dam height of 58 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 Willow Creek Dam last inspected?
Willow Creek Dam was last inspected on May 11, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.