Cotesfield Detention Dam is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Howard, Nebraska along the TR-NORTH LOUP RIVER. This earth dam, completed in 1963 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, stands at a height of 24 feet and has a structural height of 30 feet, with a length of 315 feet. It serves as a crucial safeguard against potential flooding in the area, with a maximum storage capacity of 64 acre-feet and a normal storage of 2 acre-feet.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in May 2019. Despite its age, the structure continues to play a key role in protecting the surrounding community from the risks of flooding, with a drainage area of 0.2 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 1801 cubic feet per second. The dam's strategic location and design make it a crucial asset for water resource management in the region, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure in addressing climate-related challenges.