Ptacek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: North Oak Creek 6-A Skull Creek 55
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Located in Butler, Nebraska, Ptacek Dam is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 20.5 feet and spans 500 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 60.3 acre-feet and a normal storage of 22.3 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition and low hazard potential.
Serving as a vital resource for the local community, Ptacek Dam plays a crucial role in providing water for fire protection and supporting livestock and small fish populations. Situated on Skull Creek, this dam contributes to the conservation of water resources in the area and helps mitigate potential drought-related challenges. With its strategic location and infrastructure, Ptacek Dam underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices and the integration of climate resilience measures in dam operations.
As a part of the broader water resource network in Nebraska, Ptacek Dam exemplifies the collaboration between private ownership and state regulatory agencies to ensure the safety and functionality of essential water infrastructure. With its satisfactory condition and low hazard potential, Ptacek Dam stands as a testament to effective dam design and maintenance practices. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ptacek Dam serves as a fascinating case study in sustainable water management and the intersection of environmental conservation and community needs.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
20.5 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SKULL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
20.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
60.3 |
Structural Height |
20.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River At North Bend
|
4920cfs |
Wahoo Creek At Ithaca
|
53cfs |
Clear Cr 1.75mi W Of Polk Co Line
|
16cfs |
Shell Creek Near Columbus
|
87cfs |
Rock Creek Near Ceresco
|
14cfs |
Little Salt Creek Near Lincoln
|
2cfs |
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.
Ptacek Dam
Homestead Lake Recreation