Big Indian Creek 17-A Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Indian Creek 7-B Eick Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Big Indian Creek 17-A is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Jefferson, Nebraska, owned by the local government and designed by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a structural height of 37 feet, with a length of 1185 feet. It has a storage capacity of 3099 acre-feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the surrounding area. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition.
Situated on TR-Big Indian Creek, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, with a drainage area of 13.63 square miles and a maximum discharge of 3840 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to an inspection frequency of 5 years to maintain its operational integrity. The structure's condition was last assessed in October 2020 and deemed satisfactory, providing assurance to water resource and climate enthusiasts that Big Indian Creek 17-A continues to effectively mitigate flood risks in the area.
With its stone core and soil foundation, Big Indian Creek 17-A stands as a testament to effective water resource management in Nebraska. Its location in the Omaha District, under the oversight of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, highlights the collaborative efforts involved in ensuring the dam's functionality. As a key element in the local flood risk reduction strategy, this dam serves as a model for sustainable infrastructure development in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
1185 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
60 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
13.63 |
Nid Storage |
3099 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Blue R At Hollenberg
|
70cfs |
Little Blue River Near Fairbury
|
230cfs |
Turkey Creek Near De Witt
|
10cfs |
Big Blue R At Barneston Nebr
|
131cfs |
Mill C At Washington
|
8cfs |
Big Blue R At Marysville
|
147cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Diller City Park
|
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Rock Creek Station State Rec Area
|
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Leisure Lake WMA
|
Big Indian Creek 17-A
Arrowhead WMA