Aowa Creek 31-1 is a key infrastructure managed by the local government in Dixon, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the NE DNR. This earth dam, completed in 1972, stands at a height of 38 feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.3 square miles, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Located in the city of Ponca, Nebraska, Aowa Creek 31-1 is a low hazard potential structure with a poor condition assessment as of April 2020. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential water management functions, with a maximum discharge capability of 132 cfs. Its poor condition highlights the need for ongoing maintenance and inspection to ensure its effectiveness in the face of changing climate conditions and potential flood events.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Aowa Creek 31-1 serves as a vital asset in the region's water infrastructure, with a state-regulated status and regular inspection frequency. As climate change impacts intensify, the importance of maintaining and improving such structures becomes increasingly evident to ensure the resilience of communities and ecosystems in the face of evolving water resource challenges.