Bellwood 4-L Reservoir Report
Nearby: Smith Dam 331 Bellwood 4-K
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Bellwood 4-L is a local government-owned earth dam located in Butler, Nebraska, along the TR-BONE CREEK.
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Summary
Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands 29 feet tall and stretches 620 feet in length, providing flood risk reduction in the area. With a storage capacity of 243 acre-feet, it serves as a vital resource for managing water flow and protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events.
Managed by the NE DNR and regulated by the state of Nebraska, Bellwood 4-L has a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition based on the last inspection in June 2019. Its primary purpose of flood risk reduction highlights its importance in safeguarding the area from water-related emergencies. With a drainage area of 1 square mile and a maximum discharge capacity of 383 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and ensuring the safety of residents in the region.
As a key structure in the Kansas City District, Bellwood 4-L is a testament to the collaboration between federal and local agencies in managing water resources and mitigating climate-related risks. Its strategic location, design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and adherence to state regulations demonstrate the commitment to sustainable water management practices in Nebraska. With its history of successful operation and ongoing inspections, Bellwood 4-L stands as a vital asset in the region's efforts to adapt to changing climate conditions and protect its communities from potential water-related hazards.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
620 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BONE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
243 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clear Cr 1.75mi W Of Polk Co Line
|
15cfs |
Shell Creek Near Columbus
|
87cfs |
Platte River Near Duncan
|
243cfs |
Platte River At North Bend
|
4920cfs |
Prairie Creek Nr Silver Creek Nebr
|
5cfs |
Silver Cr
|
2cfs |
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 4-L