Upper Salt Creek 3-A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Salt Creek 3-A, located in Lancaster County, Nebraska, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along Linn Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 48.4 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 1767.4 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3.4 square miles. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is in satisfactory condition and undergoes regular inspections by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.

With its primary purpose being flood risk reduction, Upper Salt Creek 3-A plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential water-related disasters. Positioned under the jurisdiction of the NE DNR, this dam is equipped with stone core types and a soil foundation, spanning a length of 1040 feet and covering a surface area of 6.4 acres. Its strategic location and effective design contribute to its effectiveness in managing water flow and protecting the area during extreme weather events.

As a key feature in the water resource management infrastructure of Nebraska, Upper Salt Creek 3-A serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government agencies and the USDA NRCS. With its significant impact on flood control and water conservation, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of proactive measures in mitigating climate-related risks and ensuring the resilience of communities in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

1040

Dam Height

48.4

River Or Stream

LINN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.4

Hydraulic Height

48.4

Drainage Area

3.4

Nid Storage

1767.4

Structural Height

51.9

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

52
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.