Papio Creek W-4 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Kennard, Nebraska, along the TR-Big Papio Creek. 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.