Zwiener Dam, located in Buffalo County, Nebraska, along the South Loup River, was completed in 1961 and stands at a height of 28.3 feet. This private dam primarily serves the purpose of flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 332.8 acre-feet and a drainage area of 6.19 square miles. Despite its critical function, the dam's condition assessment was reported as poor during its last inspection in June 2019, raising concerns about its structural integrity and maintenance.

Managed by the USDA NRCS, Zwiener Dam is regulated by the Nebraska DNR and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure compliance with safety standards. With a length of 230 feet and a surface area of 5.3 acres, this earth dam plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks in the region. However, its outdated infrastructure and poor condition highlight the need for increased maintenance and potential upgrades to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure long-term effectiveness in flood control efforts.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and advocate for the proper maintenance and rehabilitation of dams like Zwiener to enhance their resilience to changing environmental conditions. By supporting ongoing inspection and maintenance efforts, as well as advocating for necessary investments in dam safety, we can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources and the protection of communities from the impacts of extreme weather events in the future.