Cottonwood Creek 6-E Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Cottonwood Creek 6-E is a local government-owned dam located in Saunders, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the NE DNR.
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Summary
Completed in 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction in the area. With a storage capacity of 271 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.7 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding.
Despite its importance, Cottonwood Creek 6-E is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a hazard potential rated as low. The last inspection in April 2018 revealed maintenance issues that need to be addressed to ensure the dam's effectiveness in the event of a flood. With a frequency of inspections every 5 years, it is crucial for the responsible agencies to take action to improve the structural integrity of the dam and mitigate any potential risks to the community.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and support the maintenance and improvement of critical infrastructure like Cottonwood Creek 6-E to safeguard against the impact of extreme weather events and ensure the sustainable management of water resources in the region. By staying informed and advocating for the necessary resources and attention to be directed towards this dam, we can contribute to a more resilient and climate-ready community that is better prepared for the challenges of the future.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
799 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
271 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River At North Bend
|
4920cfs |
Wahoo Creek At Ithaca
|
53cfs |
Platte River Nr Leshara
|
5270cfs |
Maple Creek Near Nickerson
|
37cfs |
Shell Creek Near Columbus
|
87cfs |
Rock Creek Near Ceresco
|
14cfs |
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.
Cottonwood Creek 6-E
Czechland Lake Recreation