Papio Creek W-2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Papio Creek W-2, nestled in Washington, Nebraska, along the TR-Big Papio Creek, is a vital water resource infrastructure managed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, this earth dam stands at 34 feet high and serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 504 cubic feet per second, Papio Creek W-2 plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential water-related hazards.

Owned and regulated by the local government and the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Papio Creek W-2 undergoes regular inspections, with its condition assessed as satisfactory as of June 2020. Despite its low hazard potential, this earth dam remains a key component in the region's water management system. Situated in the Omaha District, this structure not only fulfills its primary purpose of flood risk reduction but also contributes to other water resource management initiatives in the area.

With its stone core and soil foundation, Papio Creek W-2 spans 500 feet in length and covers a surface area of 4 acres, serving a drainage area of 0.2 square miles. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of this dam, they can appreciate its role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region while ensuring the safety and well-being of the local community.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR-BIG PAPIO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

66

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.