Candlewood Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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.


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Summary

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
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.