Scow Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Clear Creek 6 Messing Scow Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Scow Detention Dam, located in Polk, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS to manage flood risk along TR-Clear Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and spans 400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 422 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safe operation.
With a hazard potential rated as low and a satisfactory condition assessment, Scow Detention Dam serves its primary purpose of flood risk reduction effectively. The dam's design, with a stone core and soil foundation, allows it to withstand hydraulic pressures and maintain its structural stability. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 1,535 cubic feet per second, ensuring that it can effectively manage floodwaters during extreme events.
Located in an area represented by Congressman Jeff Fortenberry, Scow Detention Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding. As a vital piece of infrastructure in the region, the dam's existence highlights the ongoing efforts to manage water resources and mitigate the impacts of climate change on local ecosystems and communities in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CLEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
1.7 |
Nid Storage |
422 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clear Cr 1.75mi W Of Polk Co Line
|
17cfs |
Platte River Near Duncan
|
243cfs |
Prairie Creek Nr Silver Creek Nebr
|
6cfs |
Silver Cr
|
5cfs |
Loup River Near Genoa
|
1570cfs |
Shell Creek Near Columbus
|
87cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Scow Detention Dam