Vonasek Dam 498, located in Knox County, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of irrigation. Completed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26 feet, providing a storage capacity of 131 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 was deemed poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and improvements to ensure its long-term functionality.

Situated on Soldier Creek, Vonasek Dam 498 plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 52 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1400 cubic feet per second. The dam covers a surface area of 9 acres and serves a drainage area of 2.6 square miles. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, regular inspections by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources ensure compliance with state regulations and enforcement measures to guarantee public safety and environmental protection.

As a vital water resource infrastructure in the area, Vonasek Dam 498 underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and risk management to sustain its functionality and safety. With its location in a private setting and reliance on the expertise of the USDA NRCS, ongoing efforts to address the dam's poor condition assessment and enhance its resilience to climate impacts are essential for the continued success of irrigation activities and water management in the region.