Bellwood 6-E Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bellwood 6-G Schmit Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Bellwood 6-E is a key flood risk reduction infrastructure located in Butler, Nebraska, along the TR-Platte River.
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Summary
Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 30 feet tall and stretches 262 feet in length, providing vital protection to the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 137 acre-feet and a normal storage of 22 acre-feet, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating potential flooding events.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the NE DNR, Bellwood 6-E has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of its last assessment in May 2016. With a drainage area of 0.5 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 1084 cubic feet per second, this dam serves as a critical piece of infrastructure in the region's water resource management system. Despite its age, Bellwood 6-E continues to be a reliable and effective tool in safeguarding the community against the impacts of extreme weather events.
As an essential component of flood risk reduction efforts in the area, Bellwood 6-E remains a cornerstone in the local water resource and climate resilience strategy. With its strategic location along the Platte River and its robust design and construction, this dam stands as a testament to effective water infrastructure planning and management. As climate change continues to threaten communities with more frequent and severe weather events, structures like Bellwood 6-E will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in Butler, Nebraska, and beyond.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
262 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PLATTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
137 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clear Cr 1.75mi W Of Polk Co Line
|
15cfs |
Platte River Near Duncan
|
243cfs |
Shell Creek Near Columbus
|
87cfs |
Prairie Creek Nr Silver Creek Nebr
|
5cfs |
Silver Cr
|
2cfs |
Platte River At North Bend
|
4920cfs |
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 6-E