Otto Dam, located in Hamilton County, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of irrigation. Completed in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15 feet, serving as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.8 square miles, Otto Dam plays a vital role in managing water flow and ensuring a stable water supply for agricultural needs.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Otto Dam has a low hazard potential and has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of June 2017. The dam, standing at a structural height of 17 feet and a length of 560 feet, is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 225 cubic feet per second, providing flood protection and water storage capabilities. With state regulation, inspection, and enforcement in place, Otto Dam is a well-maintained structure contributing to water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

In the event of an emergency, Otto Dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk assessment measures are yet to be fully disclosed, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and preparedness. With its stone core foundation and soil base, Otto Dam is a significant asset for the community, supported by federal agency designers and state permitting processes. As a key irrigation infrastructure in Nebraska, Otto Dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management, climate adaptation, and regulatory oversight in safeguarding critical water supplies for agricultural and ecological sustainability.