Bellwood 3-A Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bellwood 3-C Gruenewald Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Bellwood 3-A is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Butler, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet, with a hydraulic height of 32 feet and a structural height of 38 feet. It boasts a storage capacity of 182.6 acre-feet, serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the area.
With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2016, Bellwood 3-A is deemed to be in good operational order. The dam spans 462 feet in length and covers a surface area of 8.8 acres, providing critical protection to the surrounding region. Despite its age, the structure continues to be regularly inspected and maintained, ensuring its effectiveness in safeguarding the local community from potential flooding events.
Under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska DNR, Bellwood 3-A plays a crucial role in water resource management for the area, with a drainage area of 0.75 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 619 cubic feet per second. This essential infrastructure, overseen by local government authorities, exemplifies the collaborative efforts in place to mitigate flood risks and protect the environment in Butler, Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
462 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CLEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
0.75 |
Nid Storage |
182.6 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clear Cr 1.75mi W Of Polk Co Line
|
17cfs |
Platte River Near Duncan
|
243cfs |
Shell Creek Near Columbus
|
87cfs |
Prairie Creek Nr Silver Creek Nebr
|
6cfs |
Silver Cr
|
5cfs |
Loup River Near Genoa
|
1570cfs |
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.
Bellwood 3-A