Dorchester 3-A is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Saline, Nebraska, along the TR-W FK BIG BLUE RIVER. Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 31 feet tall, with a length of 892 feet and a storage capacity of 135 acre-feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, with a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in April 2016.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Dorchester 3-A is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's design incorporates stone core and soil foundation, with a maximum discharge capacity of 292 cubic feet per second. Its location in Crete, Nebraska, makes it a vital component of the local water resource and climate resilience infrastructure, providing protection to the surrounding area against potential flood events.

Despite its age, Dorchester 3-A continues to play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region, demonstrating the effectiveness of proper design, maintenance, and regulation of water structures. With its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, this earth dam stands as a testament to the importance of proactive management in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events and climate change.