Big Indian Creek 8-E Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Big Indian Creek 8-E is a local government-owned structure located in Jefferson, Nebraska, designed by USDA NRCS to reduce flood risks along the Big Indian Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1973, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet, with a length of 1325 feet, and a storage capacity of 2152 acre-feet. Situated in a low hazard area, the dam is categorized as satisfactory in terms of condition assessment, with the last inspection conducted in June 2016.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Big Indian Creek 8-E plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a drainage area of 6.23 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 1016 cubic feet per second, this structure serves as a vital component in the overall flood risk reduction strategy for the region. Despite its low hazard potential, regular inspections are carried out every five years to ensure its effectiveness and safety.

With its strategic location and design, Big Indian Creek 8-E exemplifies the collaborative efforts between local and federal agencies, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in water resource management and climate resilience. As an essential infrastructure within the flood-prone area, this dam stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment to safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events and rising water levels.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

1325

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR-BIG INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

49

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

6.23

Nid Storage

2152

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.