Papio Creek W-4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Papio Creek W-2 Papio Creek W-3
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Papio Creek W-4 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Kennard, Nebraska, along the TR-Big Papio Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Managed by the local government, this earth dam was designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1972 to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a dam height of 33 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 65 acre-feet, Papio Creek W-4 plays a crucial role in managing water flow and minimizing the impact of extreme weather conditions on the community.
Operated and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Papio Creek W-4 is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and overall performance. The dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition, meeting safety guidelines for emergency preparedness. Despite its relatively small surface area and drainage area, Papio Creek W-4 serves as a valuable asset in the region's water resource management efforts, showcasing effective collaboration between local and state agencies in safeguarding communities against the impacts of climate change.
As a key component of the flood risk reduction system in Washington County, Nebraska, Papio Creek W-4 contributes to the overall resilience of the area against potential water-related emergencies. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam has proven to be a reliable structure since its construction, providing essential protection to the residents and infrastructure in Kennard. Its role in managing water flow, particularly during periods of high discharge, highlights the importance of strategic water resource planning and infrastructure maintenance in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
519 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG PAPIO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Papillion Cr
|
38cfs |
Elkhorn River At Waterloo
|
1120cfs |
Platte River Nr Leshara
|
5270cfs |
Maple Creek Near Nickerson
|
37cfs |
Missouri River At Omaha
|
17500cfs |
Logan Creek Near Uehling
|
302cfs |
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.
Papio Creek W-4
Blair City boat ramp