Upper Salt Creek 35-1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Upper Salt Creek 35-1 is a local government-owned Earth-type dam located in Lancaster, Nebraska, along the TR-E BR Salt Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1956 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet, with a structural height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 23 feet. It serves a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 102 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.2 square miles. The dam has a normal storage level of 24 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 427 cubic feet per second, making it a vital asset for water resource management in the area.
With a length of 650 feet and a surface area of 6 acres, Upper Salt Creek 35-1 plays a significant role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding communities. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and overall condition. The most recent inspection in April 2019 deemed the dam to be in satisfactory condition, with a hazard potential classified as significant. In case of emergencies, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, highlighting the need for further preparedness measures to safeguard against potential risks.
Overall, Upper Salt Creek 35-1 is a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the region, with a long history of service since its completion in 1956. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam has been modified in 1985 for hydraulic purposes and continues to be an essential component of the water management system in Lancaster, Nebraska. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of dams like Upper Salt Creek 35-1 in protecting communities from flooding and ensuring water security is key to sustainable development and resilience in the face of changing climate patterns.
Years Modified |
1985 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-E BR SALT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
102 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
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