Candlewood Dam, located in Omaha, Nebraska, along the TR-BIG PAPIO CREEK, is a local government-owned structure designed by ELLIOTT & BLACK and HDR ENGINEERING INC.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1973, this earthen dam stands at a height of 57 feet and has a structural height of 62 feet, with a length of 930 feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam provides storage for 1256 acre-feet of water and covers a surface area of 32 acres.
Maintained by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Candlewood Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being assessed as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition is deemed satisfactory as of the last inspection in October 2020. With a drainage area of 2.2 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 15,630 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Candlewood Dam presents an intriguing case study of a recreational dam in Nebraska with a significant storage capacity and hydraulic height. With ongoing maintenance and periodic inspections, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively while being closely monitored for any potential risks. Its location along the TR-BIG PAPIO CREEK adds to the ecological significance of the area, making it a focal point for understanding the intersection of water management, infrastructure, and environmental conservation efforts.
Years Modified |
2003 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
930 |
Dam Height |
57 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG PAPIO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Hydraulic Height |
57 |
Drainage Area |
2.2 |
Nid Storage |
1256 |
Structural Height |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
62 |
Big Papillion Cr
|
38cfs |
Elkhorn River At Waterloo
|
1120cfs |
Missouri River At Omaha
|
17700cfs |
Platte River Nr Leshara
|
5270cfs |
Platte R At Louisville Ne
|
6300cfs |
Platte R Nr Ashland
|
6290cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Cunningham
|
||
Glenn Cunningham Lake
|
||
Walnut Creek - Papillion
|
||
Friendship City Park
|
||
N. P. Dodge Mem Park
|
||
Camp Brewster
|